A man suspected of domestic violence is presumed dead after barricading himself inside a workplace in Auburn and refusing to surrender during an hours-long standoff that ended in a large fire, according to Kent Police.
The incident began Tuesday morning around 8 a.m., when officers and members of the Valley SWAT team attempted to arrest a 51-year-old Kent resident on charges of domestic violence assault with a firearm and fleeing law enforcement. As officers approached the man’s apartment, he fled in a vehicle. Police briefly pursued him but called off the chase due to high speeds and public safety concerns.
Investigators later determined that the suspect had likely retreated to his workplace at 1520 W Pike Street in Auburn. Law enforcement quickly surrounded the building and began negotiating for a peaceful surrender. The man was believed to be armed with the same firearm involved in the earlier alleged assault.
Despite hours of efforts—including the use of a drone, flash bangs, and chemical agents—negotiators were unable to convince the man to exit the building. A judge authorized a warrant allowing officers to enter the premises and use force if necessary.
Shortly before 6 p.m., SWAT officers moved in to clear the building when a fire suddenly broke out. The fire spread rapidly, forcing officers to retreat for their safety. Emergency crews responded to extinguish the blaze but were hindered by the threat of the armed suspect still possibly inside.
Police confirmed that the building was successfully evacuated without any serious injuries. It is believed the suspect was alone inside at the time of the fire. Although officials suspect he perished in the flames, confirmation is pending.
The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation. Law enforcement maintained a presence at the scene into the early hours of Wednesday as part of the ongoing inquiry.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more details emerge .
