POULSBO — The Kitsap County Coroner released the identity of the man killed in an officer-related shooting at Les Schwab Tire Center in Poulsbo Wednesday evening.
Coroner Greg Sandstrom said Joseph Matthew Henninger, 24, of Poulsbo died of multiple gunshot wounds to the torso, right arm and neck. A toxicology report has been requested and will be completed in six to eight weeks.
Sheriff’s Department spokesman Scott Wilson said in his report Poulsbo Police arrived four minutes after the call came in at 5:52 p.m. of a man with a gun. The tire center is located at 424 NW Edvard St. and Viking Way.
“Three Poulsbo officers were confronted with actions by the man with the gun that placed them and the public in positions of jeopardy,” the report states. “Officers fired shots striking the gunman.” Henninger was declared dead at the scene.
Per department policy, the three officers are currently on administrative leave. Poulsbo Deputy Chief Wendy Davis identified the officers involved: Sgt. Robert Wright, a 22-year Poulsbo officer; Officer Ricki Sabado, a 28-year Poulsbo officer; and Officer John Halsted, a 16-year Poulsbo officer.
Davis said the department will be evaluating the incident over the next few days to determine when those officers may return. Poulsbo has 14 officers in its department; Bainbridge Island, Suquamish and the county have offered their assistance in police responses and duties in the mean time. At the request of the Poulsbo Police Department, the Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office will conduct investigative responsibilities.
Once the investigation is complete, the sheriff’s report will go to the County Prosecutor’s office to determine if charges are warranted.
Wilson’s report states a handgun was found in Henninger’s possession.
Witnesses at the scene reported hearing shouting and then gunshots in the store just before 6 p.m. Subway employee Melissa Johnson said she heard “eight more shots” after officers arrived.
“It was like fireworks,” said a woman who identified herself as Lola, who was pumping gas at the Shell gas station near Les Schwab.
Read the Herald’s previous report here.
