East Precinct officers arrested a man for assault and recovered three handguns during a vehicle stop early Saturday morning, Jan. 11.
At 2:39 a.m., officers were patrolling near 10th Avenue and East Pike Street when they were flagged down by victims who reported that the occupant of a silver vehicle had pointed a gun at them. Officers observed a car matching the description driving slowly directly in front of their patrol vehicle and initiated a stop at a gas station in the 1500 block of Broadway.
Four occupants exited the vehicle, all of whom were detained due to the weapon report. The driver, a 19-year-old man, and three male passengers ages 14, 19, and 20. A routine records check revealed no warrants, though both adult passengers had prior violent felony history.
The 19-year-old driver was identified as the suspect who pointed the gun at the victims and was arrested for assault. The car was impounded, and officers obtained a search warrant.
During the vehicle search, officers recovered three handguns, all with extended magazines. One handgun appeared to have been modified with a “switch” that allows it to be converted from semi-automatic to fully automatic. Another handgun had its serial number filed off. Officers also found two black ski masks and three blue bandanas inside the vehicle.
The Homicide/Assault Unit is handling the investigation. The suspect was booked into King County Jail on charges of second-degree assault and unlawful possession of a firearm.
Incident Number 25-10346/East Precinct
