Story perspectives

Benjamin Parker identified as Enumclaw mass homicide suspect

8/25/2026

Summary

Parker Suicide

Washington County identified Benjamin Charles Parker as the homicide suspect.
Parker died by suicide in his car behind a Safeway in Enumclaw on Sunday, Aug. 23.
Victims were Mary Elizabeth Kimsey, Rowan Karla Kimsey, Stella Jade Kimsey, Linsey Mae Haraldsen, and Alvin Raymond Chu.
Firefighters found the bodies after a vehicle fire on Northwest Otis Lane on Aug. 22.
Two cats, two dogs, and a third cat (euthanized) were dead.

Summary

Massey Seeks Tips

The incident marks the U.S.’s fourth mass murder since Aug. 7, part of 16 reported this year.
Detective Shannon Wilde said twelve agencies, including state and federal labs, are assisting the investigation.
Washington County Major Crimes Team leads the case, case number 50-26-11866.
Sheriff Caprice Massey said no public danger and asked tips at 503-629-0111.
The Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) participated, while the FBI was not involved.

History

Historical Context

On April 20 1999, seniors Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold killed 13 students and a teacher at Columbine High School, prompting nationwide gun-policy debates and new active-shooter response tactics. The August 23 2024 Washington County killings, in which multiple victims died and the suspect committed suicide, have revived those debates and renewed calls for stricter background checks.

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Parker Suicide

Washington County identified Benjamin Charles Parker as the homicide suspect.
Parker died by suicide in his car behind a Safeway in Enumclaw on Sunday, Aug. 23.
Victims were Mary Elizabeth Kimsey, Rowan Karla Kimsey, Stella Jade Kimsey, Linsey Mae Haraldsen, and Alvin Raymond Chu.
Firefighters found the bodies after a vehicle fire on Northwest Otis Lane on Aug. 22.
Two cats, two dogs, and a third cat (euthanized) were dead.

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