Benjamin Steven Woods : “Washington cops shoot dead carjacking suspect pointing gun at officers in crowded American Legion hall bingo game”

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Washington police shooting carjacking suspect
2. American Legion hall bingo game shooting incident

Newly released body camera footage reveals Washington police chasing a carjacking suspect into a crowded bingo hall and fatally shooting him after he pointed a gun at the officers. Clark County Sheriff’s Office deputies tracked down the suspects to an American Legion parking lot, where the male suspect, identified as Benjamin Steven Woods, refused to comply and ran into the bingo hall. Deputies warned Woods before he pulled out his weapon, leading to a confrontation where he was shot multiple times. The incident, which left Woods dead at the scene, is being investigated by the Vancouver Police Department. Witnesses described the chaotic scene inside the bingo hall as shots rang out.

The Incident at the Bingo Hall

On a fateful day in April, chaos erupted at an American Legion parking lot in Washington when Clark County Sheriff’s Office deputies confronted two carjacking suspects. The male suspect, later identified as Benjamin Steven Woods, led officers on a high-speed chase that ended inside a crowded bingo hall.

Intense Police Chase

Deputies tracked down the suspects to the American Legion parking lot after a reported carjacking in Hazel Dell. The male suspect, armed with a handgun, refused to comply with commands and ran into the bingo hall while being pursued by officers and a police dog.

Deadly Confrontation

Inside the packed bingo hall, body camera footage captured the tense moments as Deputy Michael Gonzalez warned Woods of the consequences. Despite the warnings, Woods pulled out his weapon and threatened the deputies, leading to a fatal confrontation.

Swift Response

Deputies Gonzalez and Jim Payne fired multiple rounds at Woods as he brandished his gun, ultimately bringing the suspect to his knees in front of shocked onlookers. The swift actions of law enforcement prevented further harm to innocent bystanders.

Community Impact

The shooting sent shockwaves through the bingo hall, with witnesses describing the harrowing moments as bullets rang out. Bingo players, including Jamie Gardner and Deborah Alderman, were caught in the crossfire, prompting a swift response from law enforcement to neutralize the threat.

Investigation Underway

The Southwest Washington Independent Investigative Response Team, led by the Vancouver Police Department, is conducting a thorough investigation into the incident. Sergeant Fred Harrison and Deputy Enrique Cordero, along with Gonzalez and Payne, are cooperating with authorities to provide a detailed account of the events leading up to the shooting.

Conclusion

The tragic events that unfolded at the American Legion bingo hall serve as a stark reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face in the line of duty. As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of Benjamin Steven Woods while seeking answers to ensure justice is served.