Armed Suspect Flees Police — Kennewick Shooting Follows

A routine police encounter quickly became a dangerous confrontation when officers attempted to deal with a driver believed to be armed. What initially appeared to be a roadside investigation soon escalated, with the suspect refusing to cooperate and attempting to get away.

THE TRAFFIC STOP ESCALATES

Bodycam footage shows an officer approaching the driver's side of a vehicle at what appears to be a busy roadside location.

The officer speaks with the driver while another emergency response can be seen in the background. THE SITUATION QUICKLY BECOMES MORE SERIOUS AS OFFICERS DEAL WITH AN ALLEGEDLY ARMED SUSPECT.

Rather than simply ending the encounter, the suspect's actions lead officers to take additional precautions.

THE SUSPECT TRIES TO GET AWAY

As officers attempt to control the situation, the encounter develops into a pursuit.

THE SUSPECT'S DECISION TO FLEE TURNS A ROUTINE POLICE CONTACT INTO A MUCH MORE DANGEROUS INCIDENT.

Officers begin searching for the fleeing suspect while other units respond to the developing situation.

GUNFIRE FOLLOWS

The incident ultimately escalates into a shooting in Kennewick. Officers respond to the threat while attempting to bring the situation under control.

The bodycam footage provides a close look at the moments leading up to the confrontation and shows how quickly police encounters can change when a suspect refuses to comply.

THE ENCOUNTER COMES TO AN END

After the confrontation, officers secure the scene and continue their investigation. Evidence from the incident would then be used to determine exactly what happened and what charges could follow.