Pierce County investigators are on the lookout for a suspect involved in a dramatic officer-involved shooting early Sunday morning. Authorities discovered a man slumped in a vehicle near Tacoma around 2 a.m. He was identified as Skyler Cantrell, a 23-year-old with several felony warrants, including for second-degree assault and evading police.
Cantrell had previously been convicted of a drive-by shooting in 2024, leading to a year in prison and 18 months of community custody. He went off the radar, prompting a warrant for his re-arrest in January for not following community custody rules.
When deputies approached, Cantrell reportedly started ramming vehicles in a frantic escape attempt and then drove toward a deputy. Shots were fired during the confrontation, but thankfully, no deputies were injured. Details remain unclear on whether Cantrell returned fire or was hit himself.
Residents in the area are understandably concerned. One neighbor shared, “My son plays outside with all the kids in the neighborhood. It’s uneasy.”
Shortly after the incident, deputies found Cantrell’s vehicle crashed and abandoned nearby. A few minutes later, people called 911, claiming a bloodied man had entered their homes seeking help. Some witnesses reported seeing him enter and leave properties after being confronted.
To locate Cantrell, authorities deployed drones and a K9 unit, but as of now, he remains at large. Residents are advised to lock their doors and report any suspicious activity. Cantrell was last spotted wearing a dark hoodie.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about community safety and crime in the area. A recent report from the FBI indicates that violent crime rates have fluctuated in the Pacific Northwest, causing alarm among residents. In response, community initiatives are being organized to enhance neighborhood safety and foster communication between law enforcement and citizens.
As the investigation unfolds, the Pierce County Force Investigation Team is probing the officer-involved shooting, ensuring that all protocols are followed. The community anxiously awaits updates on this developing story.
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