Full Breakdown
Shooting Incident Involving WSU Football Player
9/23/2025, 12:41:20 PM
Overview of the Incident
On September 21, 2025, Uilisone “Sone” Falealo, a 19-year-old redshirt freshman offensive lineman at Washington State University (WSU), was shot in the abdomen during a party at the Aspen Heights Apartments in Pullman, Washington. The shooting occurred around 1:47 a.m. following the Apple Cup football game between WSU and the University of Washington (UW). Falealo was taken to Pullman Regional Hospital, where he underwent surgery to remove the bullet, which did not damage any organs. He is currently in stable condition and expected to recover.
Suspect Identification and Charges
The Pullman Police Department has identified Jakori Cezon Buchanan, a 20-year-old UW student from Tukwila, Washington, as the alleged shooter. A felony arrest warrant has been issued for Buchanan, charging him with first- and fourth-degree assault. Police describe him as a Black male, approximately 5 feet 7 inches tall and weighing 143 pounds. He was last seen wearing a white shirt, blue jeans, and white shoes, and is considered armed and dangerous.
Sequence of Events
According to court documents, Falealo and two fellow WSU offensive linemen, Jaylin Caldwell and Xavier Thorpe, were asked to act as security at the party due to earlier noise complaints. Witnesses reported that Buchanan was involved in multiple altercations during the event, including an incident where he allegedly assaulted a woman. After Falealo intervened in this altercation, he confronted Buchanan outside, leading to a physical struggle. Surveillance footage captured the moment Buchanan pulled a handgun and shot Falealo before fleeing the scene in a gray 2025 Hyundai Sonata with Minnesota license plates.
Official Statements and Responses
Washington State University confirmed that one of their student-athletes was the victim of the shooting and stated that Falealo is recovering with his family by his side. The university has offered support services for students affected by the incident. The Pullman Police Department is actively investigating the case and has urged anyone with information about Buchanan's whereabouts to come forward.
Criticism and Defense Claims
Buchanan's attorney, Ronnie Rae, has claimed that the shooting was an act of self-defense, stating that Buchanan intervened to protect himself and his cousin, who was reportedly injured during the altercation. Rae mentioned that his cousin, Marque Madden, suffered severe injuries, including a collapsed lung, and remains in critical condition. This defense perspective contrasts sharply with the accounts from witnesses who identified Buchanan as the shooter.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, with police reviewing surveillance footage and collecting witness statements. As of now, Buchanan has not been apprehended, and authorities are coordinating with various agencies to locate him. The Pullman Police Department has emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the public, but they continue to consider Buchanan dangerous.
Conclusion
The shooting incident involving Sone Falealo has raised significant concerns regarding safety at social gatherings and the escalating nature of conflicts among attendees. As the investigation unfolds, the legal proceedings against Jakori Buchanan will likely draw public attention, particularly regarding the claims of self-defense and the circumstances surrounding the altercation.
