Tacoma police make arrest after child shot dead on east side
May 8, 2025, 3:26 PM | Updated: 6:34 pm

The Tacoma Police Department headquarters. (Photo courtesy of KIRO 7)
(Photo courtesy of KIRO 7)
The Tacoma Police Department (TPD) said it arrested a 20-year-old man after he allegedly shot and killed a child last month on the east side.
Officers heard reports of gunshots just before 9:30 p.m. on April 20, in the 1700 block of East 41st Street. When law enforcement arrived, they found a young boy who had been shot.Â
20-year-old arrested after child shot dead
First responders desperately tried to save the boy; however, he later died from his injuries. After some investigating, detectives identified a suspect and found probable cause to make an arrest.
Homicide ARREST – 1700 E 41st Street
Tacoma, Wash. – On April 20, 2025, just before 9:30 p.m., Tacoma Police officers were dispatched to the 1700 block of East 41st Street for reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, officers located a juvenile male who appeared to have been shot— Tacoma Police Department (@TacomaPD)
Police have not released the victim’s identity, highlighting that the victim was a minor and that an investigation is still underway. The case remains active, and police are asking anyone with information to come forward.
Further details about the suspect or potential charges have not yet been released.