Police describe July 10 domestic-violence shooting; prosecutor to handle case

The Health & Safety committee heard from Police Chief Hartnell about a July 10 domestic-violence incident in which a male suspect opened fire at a residence on Ferndale, killing a woman and then shooting himself as officers arrived, Hartnell said. "A male suspect discharged a handgun, killing a female," Hartnell told the meeting. He said the officers arrived as the shooting occurred and were not able to prevent the deaths.

Hartnell described the investigative steps: the scene was secured, the coroner responded, and Bureau of Criminal Investigation personnel and forensic teams will process evidence after a search warrant is obtained and approved by the county prosecutor and a judge. He said Detective Holmes led the local investigation and praised fire and chaplain support for assisting family members at the scene, including the victim's 10-year-old daughter, who placed the 911 call. "The fire department did an exceptional job assisting that day," Hartnell said.

Chief Hartnell said a preliminary hearing was scheduled locally but that the case may proceed to a grand jury; he said the county prosecutor will handle the prosecution. He thanked members of neighboring agencies who aided the response and said the department will keep the public informed as proceedings continue.

Hartnell also described department operations and supports after critical incidents: officers on the first shift were given time off and offered counseling, and the department provides follow-up clinical psychologist review when needed. He invited council members to observe active-shooter training for schools scheduled for July 29 and 30 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The committee praised the coordinated response. A council member who had been at the scene thanked staff for their professionalism and composure during a rare and traumatic event in the city.