Family of fatally shot Snohomish corrections officer speaks out

SNOHOMISH, Wash. — A 22-year-old Lakes Stevens man was arrested in connection to the fatal shooting of a Snohomish corrections officer that happened Thursday night.

Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to a drive-by shooting call on the 600th block of South Machias Road in the city of Snohomish at 7:45 p.m.

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Scene of Snohomish fatal shooting A man was found dead in Snohomish Thursday night after shots were fired by a passing car. (KIRO 7 News)

When deputies arrived, a man in his 30s was found dead in the middle of the road. Witnesses said the man lived nearby and was slowing traffic to help a deer cross the road when he was gunned down.

A representative for the Washington State Department of Corrections identified the man as a correction officer at the Monroe Correctional Complex who has been employed there for the last year and a half.

On Tuesday, the officer’s family sent this statement:

First of all, we would like to say, on behalf of our family, friends, and everyone whose lives were touched by Dan. For every kind word of support, for every thought and gesture, from the bottom of our hearts, thank you. The outpouring of generosity throughout our community has provided a much-needed stage of warmth while we process this devastating tragedy. It is through each and every one of you, that Dan’s light shines on.

We would also like to extend our limitless gratitude to the first responders, who went above and beyond the call of duty. And continue to do so, day in and day out.

To the D.O.C. community, we extend our deepest sympathies. Dan’s goal was to make a difference and give back to the community he was born and raised in and make a difference in people’s lives. By working side by side with each and every one of you, towards something greater than himself, we believe he was able to accomplish just that. There are no words to accurately express our gratitude.

And finally, Kendra Conley, and the Snohomish County detectives, who worked tirelessly and selflessly to catch the suspect in less than 24 hours. Who has made every effort to keep us informed, updated, and cared for, to answer any question, and have been there every step of the way. We thank you.

We also cannot express enough gratitude for all who have contributed, shared, and supported the GoFundMe and Back the Blue accounts.

In the midst of tragedy, it is easy to turn to hatred and anger. Neither of which resided in Dan. With the help of every one of you, we can pull together, and not let either guide how we process this senseless tragedy. Dan’s light still shines. - Family of Dan

After the shooting, police said the car fled northbound. Officers then caught and arrested the 22-year-old suspect. He was then taken into custody on Friday afternoon at 3 p.m. and booked on suspicion of second-degree murder.

The suspect’s vehicle, a silver 2001 Lexus GS3000, was impounded as evidence.

Detectives also cleared the occupants of a Jeep Cherokee believed to be previously correlated to the shooting on Saturday.

The Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office asks people to call (425) 388-3845 with any information about the shooting. They also encourage nearby neighbors to check their cameras for surveillance video of the shooting that may help in the investigation.

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