BRUSH PRAIRIE, Wash. — An 18-year-old male was killed, and 18-year-old James Gill was arrested following an early-morning shooting at Hockinson Meadows Community Park on Friday, Aug. 15, according to the Clark County Sheriff’s Office. Gill, described as an acquaintance of the victim, was booked into the Clark County Jail on a charge of second-degree manslaughter.
Deputies were dispatched shortly after 1 a.m. to the park at 10910 Northeast 172nd Avenue after receiving a report of an 18-year-old male suffering from a single gunshot wound to the chest.
When deputies arrived, several vehicles were reportedly leaving the area. Vancouver Police Department officers and American Medical Response personnel also responded. AMR determined that the victim had died at the scene.
Investigators believe a large group of people, mostly in their late teens, had gathered at the park before the shooting. Witnesses told authorities that a handgun discharged while it was in Gill’s possession. A Glock 17 handgun was recovered from the scene.
Gill was subsequently taken into custody and booked into the Clark County Jail. His arrest marks an important development in the investigation, though authorities continue working to establish the complete circumstances surrounding the shooting.
The identity of the 18-year-old victim has not yet been publicly released. The Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office is expected to provide additional information regarding the victim’s identity, cause of death, and manner of death.
The tragic incident has left a young life lost and loved ones facing an unimaginable loss. At only 18 years old, the victim had many years ahead of him and countless opportunities to create memories with family and friends.
The Clark County Sheriff’s Office said the investigation remains active and that no additional information is currently being released.
As authorities continue gathering evidence and speaking with witnesses, the victim’s family and friends are left to mourn a sudden and heartbreaking loss.
Our thoughts are with the victim’s loved ones and everyone affected by this tragedy. May his memory live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
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