Colleen Bass Identified as Homicide Victim in Eastern State Hospital Shooting – Medical Lake, WA, September 27, 2025

On September 27, 2025, Colleen Bass, a 57-year-old security guard at Eastern State Hospital in Medical Lake, Washington, was fatally shot during a violent incident involving an armed suspect later identified as Sethaniel Bunch. According to the Spokane County Medical Examiner, Bass died from multiple gunshot wounds, and her death has been ruled a homicide.

Authorities report that Bunch, 24, shot Bass in the hospital parking lot before taking her radio and making incoherent transmissions. He later exchanged gunfire with Spokane County Deputy Evann Flanagan and was found dead near his vehicle, with his death ruled a suicide. The incident followed a series of escalating reports involving Bunch earlier that night, including erratic behavior and gunfire at a private residence. The investigation remains active.