Update from Renton and the shot firefighter.FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Last night, while responding to a medical call, one of our Local 864 Firefighters experienced a potentially life altering event and was shot while rendering aid.
Our members immediately provided treatment and transported the injured member to rendezvous with our partners from King County Paramedics Local 2595 at our fire station. They continued treatment and transported him to Harborview Medical Center. We want to send appreciation to our all who assisted at the scene and to our brothers and sisters with the Renton Police Department, WA for their professionalism.
Staff at Harborview immediately treated him for his injuries and he spent the night under observation in stable condition.
Chief Heitman and the rest of our administration from the Renton Regional Fire Authority, as well as Union representatives and Peer support members met family at Harborview and provided support for family, friends, and coworkers.
We have been in contact with our leadership in the IAFF 7th district and the Washington State Council of Fire Fighters who offered assistance if needed. We also received immediate assistance and support from our fellow union members at Seattle Fire Fighters Local 27 who went out of their way to make the situation as comfortable as possible and ensure our immediate needs were met.
This is a difficult time for our membership as this is never an expected scenario. Our member is stable and being cared for at Harborview. Their staff has taken wonderful care of him, his family, and our people. At this time, we ask for respect and privacy for our injured member, their family, and all involved.
Please keep our injured member, the responding crews, and their families in your thoughts and prayers as we wish for a speedy recovery
Our peer support team, and clinicians are attending to our responding crews and membership to ensure their health and safety. We will continue to share updates as reliable information becomes available.
In Solidarity
Chris Krystofiak
Renton Firefighters IAFF Local 864
International Association of Fire Fighters
Tim Hoover - IAFF 7th District
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Horrible news from our brothers and sisters in Renton, a firefighter was shot while responding to an EMS call. Reports state that the firefighter was transported to the hospital and is in stable condition. More information below in the comment section.Just before 8:30 pm, officers were called to the Alberston’s parking lot in the 4600 block of NE Sunset Blvd to assist the fire department with an unconscious subject in a vehicle. As officers arrived, they heard a gunshot. A firefighter on scene was struck with a bullet. Officers returned fire, and the suspect is deceased.
The firefighter was transported to the hospital in stable condition.
This remains an active scene, and the surrounding roads are closed, including Duvall Ave NE at NE Sunset.
Because this is an officer-involved shooting, the investigation will be turned over to the Valley Independent Investigative Team. The Auburn Police Department is the lead agency. Renton PD Case #26-8517
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Does this require immediate attention?
Not every medical problem is an emergency, but every medical concern deserves attention!
Ask yourself:
• Have these symptoms been the same for several days or weeks?
• Can I safely wait to contact my primary care provider?
• Am I calling because I need transportation rather than emergency medical care?
If the answer is yes, your healthcare provider or an urgent care clinic may be the best place to start.
However, if symptoms are sudden, severe, getting worse quickly, or you believe someone's life is in danger, call 911 immediately.
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There have been at least two deer collisions with reported injury so far this week in Sequim. Likely more that have been unreported property damage only.Deer. Arguably the deadliest large wild animal. Not because deer attack people, but because of vehicle collisions. In the U.S. deer are involved in roughly 1 million vehicle collisions annually, causing human fatalities, substantial injuries, and significant property damage.
More than $10 billion annually in total damages.
An estimated 26,000–59,000 human injuries and 200–440 fatalities per year.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife says more than half of all deer/vehicle collisions occur in October and November.
WSDOT studies found that "struck animal" is one of the most common crash types on the analyzed US 101 segment in East Sequim.
Reduce distracted driving.
Have your vision checked annually.
Be extra cautious while driving in dark or difficult lighting conditions.
Don’t follow other vehicles too closely.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife specifically advises that when a deer collision appears imminent, drivers should take their foot off the accelerator, brake, keep a firm grip on the steering wheel, and keep the vehicle straight. WDFW explicitly says not to swerve to avoid the deer, because the resulting collision with a guardrail, another vehicle, or roadside terrain can be more dangerous.
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Deer. Arguably the deadliest large wild animal. Not because deer attack people, but because of vehicle collisions. In the U.S. deer are involved in roughly 1 million vehicle collisions annually, causing human fatalities, substantial injuries, and significant property damage.
More than $10 billion annually in total damages.
An estimated 26,000–59,000 human injuries and 200–440 fatalities per year.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife says more than half of all deer/vehicle collisions occur in October and November.
WSDOT studies found that "struck animal" is one of the most common crash types on the analyzed US 101 segment in East Sequim.
Reduce distracted driving.
Have your vision checked annually.
Be extra cautious while driving in dark or difficult lighting conditions.
Don’t follow other vehicles too closely.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife specifically advises that when a deer collision appears imminent, drivers should take their foot off the accelerator, brake, keep a firm grip on the steering wheel, and keep the vehicle straight. WDFW explicitly says not to swerve to avoid the deer, because the resulting collision with a guardrail, another vehicle, or roadside terrain can be more dangerous.
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Falls are the leading cause of injury-related death among adults aged 65 and older in the United States.Safety Tip Tuesday: Fall Prevention
Falls can happen to anyone, but they are especially dangerous for older adults and can result in serious injuries, loss of independence, and/or a long recovery. The good news is that many falls can be prevented with a few simple changes at home and in daily routines.
Look around your home for common trip hazards. Keep walkways, stairs, and doorways free of cords, clutter, pet toys, and loose items. Make sure there is good lighting throughout your home, especially in hallways, stairways, bathrooms, and near entryways. Turn on lights before walking through a dark room and consider using nightlights in bedrooms and bathrooms.
Loose rugs, uneven flooring, wet surfaces, and unstable furniture can all contribute to falls. Use non-slip mats in the bathroom and kitchen, secure rugs with backing or tape, and clean up spills promptly. Wear supportive shoes with non-slip soles instead of socks or loose slippers when walking around the house.
Handrails on both sides of stairs and grab bars near toilets and in showers can provide important support. Keep frequently used items within easy reach so you do not need to climb on chairs, stools, or countertops. Changes in medications can also affect balance, if you feel dizzy, weak, unsteady, or have changes in your vision, talk with your healthcare provider.
A quick home safety check today could prevent a serious fall tomorrow.
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