Full Breakdown
Costco Employee Charged with Second-Degree Murder After Fatal Motorcycle Collision
8/9/2026, 8:16:36 PM
Fatal Collision at Costco Parking Lot
On July 31, 2022, a traffic incident outside the Costco Wholesale headquarters in Issaquah, Washington resulted in the death of 20-year-old employee Jonathan Langdon (spelled Jonathon in some reports). Surveillance footage obtained by prosecutors shows coworker Tyler Sorensen, 22, following Langdon on a gray sedan after observing Langdon hug fellow employee Samantha Peterson. Sorensen’s vehicle accelerated and struck the rear of Langdon’s motorcycle, propelling the rider into a metal signpost where he was killed almost instantly. Court documents describe Langdon’s body as “violently impacting the metal signpost,” with his helmet visor separating and visible impact marks matching the post.
Investigation Findings
King County prosecutors state that Sorensen admitted to intentionally striking the motorcycle, telling police his “blood was boiling” after seeing the hug. He later claimed he only intended to “spook” Langdon. After the crash, Sorensen drove home, stopped only to check his car’s condition, and was later cited for speeding by a Washington State Patrol trooper who was unaware a fatal hit-and-run had occurred nearby. According to investigators, Sorensen returned to the scene only after his father informed him of the crash.
Legal Proceedings
Sorensen was arrested and charged with second-degree murder. He pleaded not guilty at an arraignment and was ordered to remain in custody at the King County Jail. The judge set bail at $2 million. A routine pre-trial conference is scheduled for August 27.
Timeline
- July 31 (occurred): Sorensen follows Langdon from the Costco parking lot and rams his motorcycle, causing Langdon’s death.
- Following arrest: Sorensen is cited for speeding, later returns to the crash site, and is charged.
- Arraignment (date not specified): Not guilty plea entered; bail set at $2 million.
- August 27 (scheduled): Pre-trial conference to be held.
The case underscores the seriousness with which Washington authorities treat intentional vehicular assaults, especially when they result in fatal outcomes.
