Authorities arrested five suspects Monday in connection with an August 16 shooting at a Mill Creek Swift Orange Line transit stop, including four juveniles and one adult, following a joint investigation by Mill Creek Police Department and the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office Violent Offenders Task Force.
Mill Creek Police responded to gunfire reports at the transit stop in the 800 block of 164th Street SE around 5 p.m. August 16. Several juveniles were in a “physical altercation” on the bus. After exiting, a man outside the bus and a juvenile inside the bus exchanged gunfire, officials said.
Police collected critical evidence that day leading to the arrests. All five individuals are in custody and could face charges including first-degree assault, first and second-degree malicious mischief, unlawful transit conduct, reckless endangerment, unlawful firearm possession, and resisting arrest.
The suspects have not been formally charged.
Mill Creek Police Chief Stan White expressed gratitude for investigative work and collaboration with the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office. “I would like to thank the MCPD Investigations Unit, especially Detective White for their commitment to closing this case,” Chief White stated. “I would also like to thank Sgt. Dill and the members of the Snohomish County Violent Offenders Task Force for their assistance and perseverance in apprehending the suspects.”
The case has been forwarded to the Snohomish County Prosecutor’s Office for charging decisions.
The shooting occurred on the Swift Orange Line, a bus rapid transit route operated by Community Transit serving Snohomish County. The incident raised concerns about transit safety, particularly regarding juvenile involvement in violent altercations on public transportation.
The arrests demonstrate coordination between local police and specialized county task forces focusing on violent offenders. The Violent Offenders Task Force assists municipal departments with complex investigations requiring additional resources and regional coordination.