Lummi Nation police officer shot multiple times; suspect arrested

Caitlyn Freeman and Kai Uyehara, The Seattle Times on Jul 28, 2025

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SEATTLE — A Lummi Nation police officer was shot multiple times early Monday, according to the Whatcom County sheriff’s office.

The suspected shooter was arrested Monday afternoon, Lummi Nation reported in a news release.

The 37-year-old officer had responded at 12:52 a.m. to a vehicle that had driven off the road into a ditch in the 3200 block of North Red River Road in the Lummi Nation area west of Bellingham. The driver opened fire, shooting the officer multiple times, the sheriff’s office said.

The shooter fled on foot. Multiple agencies joined the search, police said. The officer was taken to a hospital and underwent surgery. Lummi Nation reported he was still receiving medical care Monday afternoon. No more information was given about his condition.

“Our hearts are heavy today. One of our own was harmed while serving and protecting our community,” Lummi Nation Chair Tony Hillaire said in a statement. “We stand with our officer, their family, and all those working to bring accountability and healing. In times like this, we must come together as one people — strong, prayerful, and united in care for one another.”

Lummi Indian Business Council offices closed “out of caution” Monday until further notice, according to Lummi Nation. The council asked the public to stay clear of the area to allow the investigation by the Law Enforcement Mutual Aid Response Team to continue. The team, also known as LEMART, typically investigates police use of lethal force.

“I urge our community members to come together and support one another,” Whatcom County Sheriff Donnell Tanskley said. “Violence against law enforcement is an attack on the safety and security of us all. We ask for your prayers and support the Lummi Nation police officer, Lummi Nation Police Department and all those who serve to keep us safe.”

No other details about the shooting were immediately available.