Bellevue Beat Blog

On Thursday, January 18th, 2024, Bellevue Police Detectives executed a search warrant in the 13800 block of SE 2nd St. in Bellevue, resulting in the arrest of suspects linked to a targeted shooting incident that occurred in Bellevue in September of 2023.

The original incident took place on Saturday, September 9, 2023, at approximately 2:30 a.m., when Bellevue Police Officers responded to reports of a shooting in the 4100 block of 146th Ave SE. When Officers arrived, they discovered a 38-year-old woman who had been shot in what officials believe was a targeted attack. The victim, who was shot in the head, was able to call 911 and was conscious when taken to Harborview Medical Center in stable condition.

The subsequent investigation led Bellevue Detectives to execute the search warrant on January 18th, resulting in the arrest of Tristan L. Fischer (10/19/05) in the 13800 block of SE 2nd St. Additional evidence related to the shooting was also discovered at the residence.

Shortly thereafter, detectives located a second suspect, a 16-year-old male, in the 9800 block of Avondale Rd NE in Redmond. At the time of his arrest, the juvenile suspect was found in possession of a polymer 80 “Ghost Gun.”

Tristan L. Fischer has been transported to King County Jail and booked for first degree assault. He is being held on $500,000 bail. The juvenile suspect has been transported to the King County Youth Center and also booked for first degree assault, with a bail also set at $500,000.

The original incident deeply concerned the community, and Bellevue Police have been actively working on the case. Wendell Shirley, Chief of the Bellevue Police Department, stated, “It’s very concerning to see young people engaged in this type of behavior, and this case should serve as an example that if you engage in this type of behavior in Bellevue, our violent crimes unit detectives will bring you to justice.”

Bellevue Police want to assure the community that there is no ongoing danger at this time, as the shooting is believed to be a targeted attack rather than a random act of violence.

This morning at 5:22 a.m., Bellevue Police responded to a report of a carjacking at the Bellevue School District bus yard, located at 12025 NE 5th Street. Officers arrived and contacted the victim, an employee of the school district. The victim told Officers that he was walking in the parking lot of the bus yard when was approached by two individuals. The employee asked the individuals why they were on the property. Both suspects then pointed handguns at the victim and demanded his phone and car keys. The victim initially refused and was then assaulted by one of the men. The suspects stole the victim’s vehicle, a black 2017 Honda CR-V, and fled the area. Police recovered a stolen KIA nearby that they believe was the vehicle the suspects arrived in. Detectives are investigating.

In recent months, there has been an unfortunate increase in carjacking incidents across the region. The safety and well-being of our community are of utmost importance. The Bellevue Police Department urges residents to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to prevent and respond to potential carjacking situations. Here are essential tips to ensure your safety:

Preventative Measures:

Stay Alert: Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar or secluded areas. Stay attentive while entering or exiting your vehicle.

Keep Your Doors Locked: Ensure your doors are locked while driving and when parked. Avoid leaving windows open, especially in isolated areas or when stopped at intersections.

Parking Safety: Park in well-lit areas and preferably in locations with high visibility. Be cautious in underground or dimly lit parking lots.

Be Cautious of Strangers: Avoid engaging with strangers who approach your vehicle or in a parking lot. If someone seems suspicious or makes you uncomfortable, drive away to a safer location or call 9-1-1 to report suspicious activity.

Maintain Distance: Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and others, especially at stoplights or in traffic. This allows room for an escape if needed.

Response Strategies:

Stay Calm: In the event of a carjacking attempt, try to remain calm. Your safety is the priority.

Comply and Don’t Resist: If threatened, comply with the attacker’s demands. YOUR CAR IS NOT WORTH YOUR LIFE.

Note Details: Try to remember as many details as possible about the assailant’s appearance, vehicle details (if any), or any distinguishing features.

Don’t Pursue: After a carjacking, do not attempt to pursue the perpetrator. Instead, immediately contact law enforcement to report the incident.

Utilize Technology: If available, activate tracking devices or apps installed in your vehicle that may aid in recovery or locating the stolen vehicle.

To protect the lives of citizens traveling in Bellevue this New Years weekend, Bellevue PD will have extra DUI emphasis patrols in the city of Bellevue.  So far this year, we have arrested 133 suspected DUI drivers just in the West Sector of Bellevue alone.  Driving under the influence of alcohol endangers the drivers, their passengers and all citizens on the road and can be deadly. While we want citizens to enjoy celebrating the New Year, we don’t want them driving impaired. So please, plan ahead by using a ride share or designating a driver to ensure you get home safely.  We wish you a Safe and Happy New Year!

The Bellevue Police Department, after an extensive investigation into organized retail thefts at Nordstrom in Bellevue Square Mall, has arrested multiple suspects involved in a series of incidents between September and November 2023.

A veteran Bellevue Police Detective and members of the Bellevue Police Department’s Special Enforcement Team spearheaded the inquiry into the thefts, which involved the targeted stealing of designer sunglasses valued at approximately $20,000. Detectives painstakingly investigated the occurrences, and yesterday four suspects were formally charged in King County Superior Court. The suspects charged are:

Larae R. Hamim, a 25-year-old female, has been charged with five counts of second-degree organized retail theft.

Joanna D. Fernandez, a 24-year-old female, has been charged with two counts of second-degree organized retail theft.

Reality T. Leavens, a 19-year-old female, has been charged with two counts of second-degree organized retail theft.

Taladra M. Swan, a 27-year-old female, has been charged with two counts of second-degree organized retail theft.

All four suspects are scheduled to be arraigned on Wednesday, January 3rd at the King County Courthouse.

The Bellevue Police Department, in collaboration with Nordstrom’s investigative team and Kemper Development Security, which provides security at Bellevue Square Mall, compiled substantial evidence, including surveillance footage and documentation of the stolen items. The investigation revealed the method of operation of the suspects, who would enter the store in a group and then swiftly steal numerous designer sunglasses and conceal them within their clothing and bags before leaving.

Bellevue Police Investigations Major Mark Tarantino, speaking about this case, highlighted the depth of the investigation, stating, “I am very proud of our investigators in this case, who meticulously connected the dots between the suspects and their involvement in these thefts.” Tarantino continued: “Our focus on reducing retail theft will continue, and we are committed to upholding the law and ensuring accountability.”

Additionally, the investigation unveiled connections between the suspects and prior criminal incidents, underscoring the department’s commitment to tracking down and prosecuting individuals engaged in organized criminal activities.

The Bellevue Police Department urges anyone with information regarding any criminal activities to come forward and assist in ongoing investigations by contacting CrimeStoppers.

The Bellevue Police Department is gearing up for the culminating evenings of the nightly Snowflake Lane Parade in downtown Bellevue. As the holiday spectacle enters its final stretch, the department urges attendees to plan ahead and stay informed to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Over the upcoming three nights, the Snowflake Lane Parade is expected to draw an estimated 17,000 spectators for the 7 p.m. show each evening, transforming Bellevue’s streets into a winter wonderland filled with mesmerizing performances and holiday cheer. With the event’s popularity, traffic congestion is expected, and the Bellevue Police Department offers several tips to navigate the area smoothly:

1. Plan Ahead: Arrive early to secure parking and familiarize yourself with road closures and alternate routes. Consider carpooling or utilizing public transportation to alleviate congestion. Please be aware that if you are driving to the event, it may take up to one hour to navigate through downtown Bellevue, and expect heavy traffic for up to 45 minutes after the conclusion of the parade.
2. Check Traffic Updates: Stay updated on real-time traffic conditions through local news outlets, traffic apps, or Bellevue’s official social media channels for any last-minute changes or updates.
3. Follow Designated Routes: Be mindful of designated parade routes and adhere to traffic instructions provided by law enforcement officers to ensure a smooth flow of vehicles and pedestrian safety. Bellevue Way NE will be closed each night from NE 4th St. to NE 8th St. from approximately 6:30 until 7:40 p.m. Northeast Sixth Street, from 105th Avenue Northeast to Bellevue Way Northeast, will be closed from 6:00-7:45 p.m.

Officer Seth Tyler, spokesperson for the Bellevue Police Department, emphasized, “Our priority is to ensure the safety of all attendees during these final nights of the Snowflake Lane Parade. We encourage everyone to plan ahead, exercise patience, and cooperate with law enforcement to make this event a memorable and safe celebration for all.”

The Bellevue Police Department will have an increased presence in the downtown area to facilitate traffic management and ensure public safety. Officers will be strategically positioned to assist with traffic flow and promptly address any concerns.

The Snowflake Lane Parade, a tradition in Bellevue for the past 19 years, culminates on December 24th. The Bellevue Police Department extends its gratitude to the community for their cooperation and wishes everyone a joyful and festive experience during these final nights of celebration.

Last night at 8:55 p.m., Bellevue Police responded to a report of a shooting at the 989 Elements Apartment building, located at 989 11th Avenue NE in Bellevue. Officers arrived and located a 35-year-old man with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound. Officers later located and detained the shooter, a 38-year-old man, in an apartment in the building. Bellevue Police Detectives responded and are investigating. Investigators do not believe this was a random shooting. The shooter was interviewed and later released from the Bellevue Police Department.

Bellevue Police case #2023-67595

Two self-proclaimed “Kia Boys” are now in custody and have been charged with numerous felony crimes following a series of violent robberies and brazen vehicle thefts around the region.

Ralphe Manuma, an 18-year-old Tacoma Resident, has been charged with:

• 5 counts of Robbery in the First Degree
• 1 count of Unlawful Imprisonment
• 1 count of Possession of Stolen Vehicle

His bail was set at $750,000.

Ardrell Davis, an 18-year-old Lakewood resident, has been charged with:

• 5 counts of Robbery in the First Degree
• 1 count of Unlawful Imprisonment
• 1 count of Taking a Motor Vehicle Without Permission in the Second Degree

His bail was set at $500,000.

On September 19th, two gas stations in the Eastgate neighborhood of Bellevue were robbed. During one of the robberies, one suspect violently assaulted the clerk by hitting him in the head with a gun before fleeing with cash and items from the store. Shortly after the two robberies in Bellevue, a Bellevue Police Crime Analyst discovered four similar robberies that had occurred in Tukwila, SeaTac, White Center, and Burien. Those robberies had occurred on the same night as the two Bellevue robberies. Further investigation by Bellevue, the King County Sheriff’s Office, and Tukwila Police Department Detectives revealed that the same suspects were likely involved in all six robberies. One of the vehicles involved in the robberies, a stolen Hyundai Tucson, was later recovered by Detectives. Evidence from the robberies was found inside the vehicle. Further evidence located in the vehicle helped tie Manuma and Davis to the crimes.

Detectives also learned that Manuma was alleged to have been involved in multiple robberies in Tacoma, including one on September 17th in which he pointed a firearm at the victim and then stole a necklace. and an incident in Lakewood on October 5th in which he had been the driver of a stolen KIA.

Detectives learned that Davis was also the suspect in multiple felony investigations, including for possession of a stolen vehicle, eluding, and an incident that had occurred in Lakewood on September 12th. That incident, which was captured on video, involved a suspect in a stolen KIA taunting the victim and her young children as his associates stole her KIA minivan (video). Davis was identified as the individual in the video. (warning: strong language.)

Manuma was arrested on December 2nd in Pierce County, and Davis was arrested by a Bellevue SWAT team at his residence on December 12th. Additional evidence was located at Davis’ residence. Both were formally charged in King County Superior Court Yesterday.

Bellevue Chief of Police Wendell Shirley, speaking about this case, stated: “These individuals terrorized our entire region, and I am very proud of the work of the many Detectives, Deputies, Officers, and Crime Analysts who worked tirelessly to make sure that these individuals were held accountable for their actions.” Chief Shirley continued: “The residents of the entire Puget Sound region can sleep better knowing that these dangerous individuals are off the streets thanks to the hard work of law enforcement.”

Last Friday afternoon, Bellevue Police arrested two suspects and recovered a stolen vehicle and firearm following a call from Bellevue Square Mall security. On Friday at about 2:30 p.m., an observant Officer with Kemper Security, which provides security for Bellevue Square Mall, observed a suspicious vehicle in the west parking garage of the mall. The Officer observed a pistol in plain view next to the front passenger seat of the vehicle, and a check of the license plate revealed that the vehicle had been reported stolen from Renton.

Bellevue Police arrived a short time later, and contacted the two individuals that had arrived in the vehicle as they exited the mall. Officers detained a 26-year-old Seattle resident who was later identified as having been the driver of the stolen vehicle. A search of the man revealed a loaded firearm on him that had also been reported stolen. Police also learned that the man was a convicted felon who was prohibited from possessing firearms. The second suspect, a 19-year-old Seattle resident, was arrested and charged with unlawful possession of a firearm as he was not legally old enough to be in possession of the firearm located next to the passenger seat of the car.

Bellevue Police seized both involved firearms and discovered that the firearm that the security guard had observed in the vehicle had been illegally modified with an attachment, making it a fully automatic pistol.

Bellevue Chief of Police Wendell Shirley, speaking about this case, stated: “This is yet another example of our Officers working closely with our retailers, loss prevention, and security Officers to reduce crime in Bellevue. Because of the cooperation of all those involved, a stolen car was recovered and, most importantly, two illegal guns are off our streets.” Chief Shirley continued: “The message is clear, if you come to Bellevue to commit crimes, your chances of being caught are high.”

Bellevue Police arrested two suspects yesterday after an observant Officer learned the vehicle they were driving had been stolen twice in the same week. Yesterday at 2:45 p.m., a Bellevue Police Officer conducting a proactive retail theft emphasis patrol in the parking lot of the Home Depot noticed a vehicle that the Officer believed may have been stolen. The vehicle, a KIA, had a broken side window and a damaged ignition. The Officer was then contacted by a loss prevention Officer from the store and learned that two individuals who arrived in the vehicle were being watched by loss prevention officers inside the store. The officer called for additional backup and detained the two suspects as they exited the store.

Officers were able to contact the owner of the KIA, and it was then that police learned that the vehicle had been stolen by the suspects after the owner dropped the vehicle off at a dealership in Auburn on Saturday to have the window and ignition repaired after it had been previously stolen and recovered in Puyallup last Saturday.

Praising the officer’s keen instincts and tenacity in recovering the stolen vehicle, Bellevue Police Chief Wendell Shirley remarked, “I commend the officer in this case, whose intuition and persistence led to the recovery of this stolen vehicle and the arrest of those involved. Our close collaboration with retailers in Bellevue is pivotal to our effectiveness, and this is yet another testament to this partnership.”

An adult and juvenile were arrested following a daytime robbery in Bellevue. Yesterday at 11:57 a.m., Bellevue Police responded to a report of an assault and robbery in the 700 block of 148^th Avenue SE near the Larsen Lake parking area. When officers arrived, they contacted the victim, who told police that he had been walking on the footpath adjacent to 148^th Avenue SE when the incident occurred. The victim stated that a KIA minivan stopped in the road, and two suspects got out of the vehicle, demanded the victim’s shoes, and physically assaulted him. The suspects were successful in removing the victim’s shoes from his feet. The suspects fled in the KIA, which was later determined to have been stolen.

Bellevue Police advised surrounding jurisdictions of the suspect vehicle description. At 12:32 that afternoon, an observant Redmond Police motorcycle officer located the suspect vehicle near Redmond Middle School, which is located at 10055 166^th Avenue NE in Redmond. Redmond Police detained four suspects after they fled from the vehicle, and Bellevue Officers responded. Two of the involved suspects, a 17-year-old male juvenile and a 19-year-old man, were ultimately arrested by Bellevue Police after having been identified as being involved in the robbery. The female driver of the vehicle was arrested by Redmond Police for possession of a stolen vehicle. The vehicle was recovered and returned to the owner.