Suspect wearing clown mask shoots car owner in Parkland
PARKLAND, Wash. - Detectives are investigating a shooting that left a car owner injured in Parkland on Thursday night.
Deputies responded to a report of a car prowl that resulted in a shooting near 146th Street Court South and Pacific Avenue South.
(Pierce County Sheriff's Department)
A young mother who did not want to be identified was watching TV Thursday evening when she said she was alarmed by screams outside her home.
"I did see someone pop out from behind the car, and they were wearing a mask and that's when I started hearing the shooting," the woman said. She claims at least 10 shots were fired.
According to the Pierce County Sheriff's Department, a woman called 911 to report her 35-year-old husband had stopped someone from breaking into his car and was holding the suspect at gunpoint.
Investigators said a few moments later the woman reported gunshots.
When deputies arrived at the scene, they found the 911 caller had multiple gunshot wounds and immediately gave him first aid. He is expected to survive from his injuries.
"I'm a little shocked by it. It's a little unsettling," the neighbor said.
Investigators said at least one suspect, who was wearing a clown mask, left behind a white Hyundai at the scene. It was reported stolen from the Seattle area.
"A lot of cars are being stolen right now," Sargent Darren Moss said. In reality, it’s been an ongoing problem for at least two years, Moss says lately thieves have only gotten younger – teens now armed – dangerous if confronted.
"I can't imagine what would have happened to the other cars in the neighborhood if he didn't come out. I kind of wished that would have just happened instead of him being wounded, but I do really commend him for that and for being so brave and just hopping on a terrible situation right away," the neighbor said.
Anyone with information about the incident, can message or submit anonymous tips to Crimestoppers on the P3Tips app, tpcrimestoppers.com or call 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).