Teen Blinded Amid Series Of Random Shootings Along SR 509

SEATTLE, WA - Local police have formed a task force to find the person behind a series of random shootings along SR 509 between Burien and Seattle. The shootings have mostly damaged cars and homes, but a 14-year-old boy lost his eyesight after being shot in the head while riding in a car in December.

Police released information about the 14-year-old's injuries hoping to incite a reaction from the shooter and to collect tips. The 14-year-old was shot around 11 p.m. on Dec. 20 just south of the 1st Avenue South bridge. The bullet entered through the front passenger window, hitting the boy in the head.

"It may be this was not intended and the individual using the firearm may not be aware of the consequences of his or her actions," Washington State Patrol Trooper Rick Johnson wrote in a press release.

Cars and buildings have been hit by gunfire recently in the vicinity of SR 509 and South 160th Street in Burien, according to police. The highway runs from Seattle's South Park neighborhood south to Normandy Park.

The task force includes WSP and local and federal police departments including the King County Sheriff's Office, Seattle police, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, Des Moines police, and Port of Seattle police.

The shooter may change his or behavior in reaction to news about the 14-year-old's injuries - that can include mood swings, interest in media coverage of the shootings, drug or alcohol use, or withdrawal from everyday life.

"Law enforcement is confident there are members of our community who have information regarding the shootings and are asking for cooperation. Oftentimes citizens have information of value but do not come forward because of concerns that it may not be important to the investigation," Johnson said.

If you have a tip, call (425) 401-7880 or email SR509shootingtip@wsp.wa.gov.

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