Washington State Deputies Killed in Hostage Rescue Attempt

Two sheriff’s deputies in Washington state lost their lives while attempting to rescue potential hostages. The incident followed a domestic violence shooting reported by a woman seeking help, authorities disclosed.

Spokane County Sheriff’s Deputies Mason Acheson and Parker Perry encountered gunfire inside a home near Spangle, south of Spokane, on November 3. As they attempted to enter, they were shot, according to details shared by the sheriff’s office.

A statement from the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office and Spokane Valley Police Department expressed devastation over the shooting. The agencies committed to supporting the deputies’ families, emphasizing the deputies’ bravery in the face of danger.

They bravely moved toward danger to protect others they did not know, the agencies stated. They are true examples of selfless service and dedication.

Deputies initially responded at approximately 2:25 p.m. after receiving a report of a woman who had been shot. The suspect was known to have an active felony warrant and possibly more weapons. Concerned for other possible victims, the deputies requested SWAT support. The injured woman was hospitalized with wounds not considered life-threatening.

Perry, a K-9 deputy, joined the effort with his dog, Brego, as deputies prepared to enter the house around 3:15 p.m. When gunfire struck both Perry and Acheson, their teammates returned fire, relocated them to safety, and provided medical care. Authorities arranged for medical helicopters and temporarily closed key highways to facilitate transportation to the hospital.

Unfortunately, Acheson died at the hospital. Perry remained on life support while arrangements were made for organ donation.

Both deputies leave behind wives and two children. Perry’s wife was expecting a third child.

In coordination with Spokane police, SWAT teams from Spokane and Kootenai County took over the scene using a drone. The suspect, Ryan Larsen, 37, was found deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to the medical examiner. Two other fatalities, Suzanne Larsen, 72, and Rebecca Larsen, 45, were identified as the suspect’s family members.

It was a very tragic day in Spokane County, Sheriff John Nowels told reporters, detailing the impact on multiple families.

Both Acheson and Perry served together in the Washington Army National Guard infantry battalion. Acheson, enlisted in 2011, served in Poland, received three Army Commendation Medals, and worked as a State Patrol trooper and firearms instructor before joining the sheriff’s office. His role as a SWAT sniper involved safeguarding teammates during dangerous encounters.

Perry, who joined the sheriff’s office in 2020, worked on the SWAT team and became a K-9 deputy in 2025. Rising to captain as a military intelligence officer, he earned two Army Commendation Medals. He responded to the call near Spangle voluntarily, showcasing dedication to his duty.

Tributes poured in from FBI Director Kash Patel, who honored the deputies and pledged support to their families. U.S. Representative Michael Baumgartner shared personal memories of Acheson and urged prayers for the families. Washington Governor Bob Ferguson ordered flags at half-staff on November 9 in honor of the deputies.

The Spokane County Sheriff’s Office announced the Sheriff Community Oriented Policing Effort is collecting donations for the funerals. Remaining funds will assist the families. The sheriff’s office expressed gratitude for public condolences and prayers, while the families requested privacy during their mourning.