MEDICAL LAKE, Wash. — A series of violent events in Medical Lake early Wednesday morning has left the community in shock and mourning. An armed man unleashed a string of violent incidents, culminating in the tragic death of a security officer at Eastern State Hospital.
What We Know About the Eastern State Hospital Shooting
The incident unfolded shortly after midnight on September 27, when a brush fire near Medical Lake High School was reported. The caller mentioned a man who made wild claims about aliens, reports KXLY. Upon arrival, firefighters requested police assistance due to the man’s aggressive behavior, but he had left before law enforcement reached the scene.
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At approximately 1:40 a.m., the situation escalated when, the suspect, Sethanial Bunch, 24, entered a home. He fired multiple shots inside the residence, though fortunately, the occupants were unharmed as they hid for safety.
The violence continued at Eastern State Hospital, where 57-year-old security officer Colleen Hendrickson Bass was shot and killed in the parking lot. The Spokane County Medical Examiner confirmed that Bass died from multiple gunshot wounds. The suspect reportedly took Bass’s radio, broadcasting alarming statements.
Police Response and Investigation
Spokane County deputies responded swiftly to the escalating situation at the hospital. Upon arrival, they exchanged gunfire with the suspect, who was later found deceased near his vehicle. A rifle and handgun were discovered near his body, along with tactical gear and additional weaponry in the car, reports KHQ.
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A spokesperson for the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services, stated that confidentiality rules prevent disclosing whether the suspect was a current or former patient at Eastern State Hospital.
Eastern State Hospital Enhances Security Measures
The tragic events have prompted law enforcement to heighten security at both Eastern State Hospital and the adjoining Lakeland Village facility, reports the Spokesman-Review. Additional security personnel have been deployed to ensure the safety of staff and patients. Support services are being provided to hospital staff through critical incident management teams and the Employee Assistance Program.
