Kent Sikh Shooting: Police Release Sketch Of Suspect

KENT, WA - Kent police have released a sketch of the man suspected of shooting a Sikh man in what the FBI is referring to as a hate crime.

Police and the FBI held a press conference at City Hall on Thursday where they asked for the public's help to find the shooter.

The victim, Deep Rai, 39, was released from the hospital on Saturday. Rai was shot in the arm on Friday evening outside of his home in the East Hill section of Kent. The shooter allegedly told Rai, "go back to your own country, go back to where you're from" before opening fire, Kent police have reported. Kent police also believe the shooting was a hate crime motivated by Rai's attire and race.

Kent police describe the suspect as a white male, 6 feet tall, with a medium build. At the time of the shooting, he was wearing a dark hoodie, dark clothing, and a mask covering the lower half of his face.

“This is a very unusual circumstance for our community” Kent Police Commander Jarod Kasner said in a press release. “We have not had a similar situation or reports of any similar incidents.”

There are two rewards for information about the suspect. The FBI is offering a $5,000 reward, and Crime Stoppers is offering $1,000 for information. Anyone with information that can help identify the suspect can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or the Kent Police tip line 253-856-5808.

Image via Kent police