Detectives investigate Kent, WA police shooting

Gunman dead following police shootout in Kent

A 34-year-old man is dead after Kent Police said he shot himself, following a violent night, including officers reportedly taking fire.

KENT, Wash. - A 34-year-old man is dead after Kent Police said he shot himself, following a violent night, including officers reportedly taking fire.

According to Kent police, a person called 911 to report hearing six to seven gunshots fired at the Madison Plaza apartments.

"Officers were able to get there relatively quickly to in fact hear shootings were occurring," said Kent Police Chief Rafael Padilla.

Police radio traffic that FOX 13 Seattle obtained shows the frantic moments officers arrive at the scene:

"Shots fired! Shots fired! The suspect is on the top floor. I shot him with my rifle. I'm not sure if he's down."

FOX 13 Seattle captured video of what appeared to be several bullet holes in the wall of the apartment. Evidence markers around the scene indicated where shell casings were left.

"What we know as of the initial part of this is that our officers are believed to have been shot at," said Padilla.

Padilla told FOX 13 Seattle it is under investigation whether an officer hit the 34-year-old gunman.

When police were able to get inside the apartment complex, they said the gunman was already dead.

"There is indication that the cause of death may have been a self-inflicted gunshot wound," said Padilla.

Officers and medics performed life-saving measures on the gunman, but he died from his injuries.

After clearing the building, officers detained a person, who told them their brother was believed to be the suspected shooter.

Kent police shooting under investigation

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FOX 13 Seattle asked Kent Police about policy following an officer firing several rounds into the apartment.

"Defense of an officer is justified by law to use deadly force to protect themselves or others from serious bodily injury or death. So, immediately when an officer is being fired upon, they have a right not only as an officer, but as a U.S. citizen, constitutionally to protect themselves," said Padilla.

The Valley Independent Investigative Team will be taking over the investigation.

No officers were injured and the officer who returned fire has been placed on administrative leave, following standard protocol.