Redmond Employee Shoots Alleged Car Thief in Self-Defense After Late-Night Confrontation

REDMOND, WA — A late-night confrontation over a suspected car theft escalated into a defensive shooting outside a business near the 15800 block of Redmond Way on July 6, according to Redmond Police.

The incident unfolded around 11 p.m. when an employee from a nearby establishment spotted an adult male allegedly attempting to steal his vehicle. The employee confronted the suspect, who reportedly responded with aggression and advanced toward him. In response, the employee, who was legally carrying a handgun, fired a single shot, striking the suspect once.

The suspect was transported to Harborview Medical Center for treatment. Authorities confirmed no other injuries occurred and no additional shots were fired. The employee remained at the scene and is cooperating fully with investigators. Redmond Police emphasized that the case remains under active investigation.

Social media responses to the police department’s post reflect a broad consensus of support for the employee’s actions, with many praising his calm response and legal use of a firearm. Comments ranged from praise for responsible gun ownership to reminders about the risks involved in such confrontations. One user noted, “Sounds like they properly used the firearm to eliminate an immediate threat without taking a life,” while another pointed out, “An insurance claim might have been the better way.”

While the employee may have acted lawfully in self-defense, this incident underscores the inherent dangers of directly confronting criminal suspects. Even when legally armed, intervening in crimes carries significant risks — including the potential of facing armed suspects, unseen accomplices, or escalation into deadly force. I often advise calling police and observing from a safe distance, especially in property crimes like vehicle theft. Firearms should only be used when there is a clear and immediate threat to life or serious bodily harm.

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