Authorities expect to present their investigation into the May 30 fatal police shooting in a central Vancouver shopping center parking lot to the Clark County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office next week.
In a Friday news release, the Lower Columbia Major Crimes Team, led by the Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office, said the investigation is ongoing, and there were no new updates to release.
Prosecutor Tony Golik previously said his office will review the case for any conflict with his office and determine who will complete the formal review.
Investigators say four officers fatally shot Joshua James Wilson, striking him an estimated six times, as he ran from them through the Heights Shopping Center parking lot, in the 6700 block of East Mill Plain Boulevard. Video previously released shows Wilson pointed a handgun at officers before they fired.
A video update released last week identifies body camera footage from Vancouver police Officer Brandon Riedel and Vancouver police Detectives Colton Price and Aaron Yoder, who investigators say each fired their guns. Clark County sheriff’s Detective Zach Nielsen also was present and shot Wilson, investigators said, but he did not wear a camera.
All four officers were placed on critical incident leave after the shooting, according to police, which is standard practice.
Wilson, 43, was armed with a Hi-Point Model C9 9 mm handgun, according to investigators. The magazine was loaded with five unspent rounds. The handgun could be seen on the ground a distance from where Wilson fell. Police video also notes a gun holster attached to Wilson’s belt.
No officers or members of the public were injured.
In an interview with investigators, Riedel said he saw Wilson point a gun and shoot in his direction. Nielsen, Yoder and Price also reportedly told investigators they saw Wilson point a gun at Riedel. Nielsen said he saw Wilson shoot, while Yoder said he heard gunfire.
Investigators have not said if Wilson fired at Riedel.
Vancouver police previously said Wilson was wanted for multiple armed robberies. They were trying to take him into custody when he fled.
