FEDERAL WAY, WA – A gruesome stabbing incident on Interstate 5 in Federal Way left one person killed and three others suffering injuries on Wednesday afternoon. The violent altercations unfolded inside an allegedly stolen vehicle on the northbound lane, close to the off-ramp to the SeaTac Rest Area.
The man who succumbed to stab wounds was reportedly the driver of the stolen black BMW and was declared dead at the scene. Another individual in the backseat was transported to the hospital for treatment of several gunshot injuries. Two other passengers, another man in the backseat and a woman in the front passenger seat, were also admitted to the hospital with knife wounds.
According to Washington State Patrol, the initial report painted a picture of an accident scene, adding confusion to the response. It was only when they arrived that they discovered bystanders who had pulled over to help the injured. What prompted the series of violent episodes inside the BMW remains unclear.
With no outstanding suspects, and no signs that other vehicles were involved, the authorities have reassured the public that there is no immediate danger.
Amid the investigations, a stolen handgun was found outside the BMW at the scene. Ongoing probes aim to determine the series of events and identify the victims and perpetrator(s). Meanwhile, authorities are appealing to any potential witnesses or those with dash-camera footage to come forward.