Retired Washington state detective David Easterly, who survived being shot twice in the line of duty in 2023, was found dead in Montana’s Flathead Lake after a boating incident. Authorities confirmed his death following Saturday’s incident, with his body recovered three days later. Easterly was recovering from multiple surgeries after the shooting and had previously spoken about his near-death experience.
Following the incident, the King County Sheriff’s Office expressed their condolences to Easterly’s family and colleagues, acknowledging the tragic loss. The Lake County Sheriff’s Office (MT) also provided support during this difficult time, offering their compassion and service to the family and friends of the deceased.
The Lake County Coroner’s Office is currently investigating the cause and manner of death, with the body being sent to the Montana State Medical Examiner’s Office for a thorough autopsy. This investigation will provide further insights into the circumstances surrounding Easterly’s demise.
In March 2023, Easterly was shot twice while serving an eviction notice with two other deputies at an apartment building in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood. The bullets went around his protective vest, striking him once in his left chest area and once on his left side. The 29-year-old tenant was found dead in the residence following the shooting, with authorities confirming the death was a suicide by gunshot.
Easterly narrowly survived the shooting, undergoing multiple surgeries and months of recovery. He had shared his experience in an interview with KOMO News, expressing his fear that he might not make it, and instructed his partner to tell his family that he loved them. His words underscore the gravity of the situation and his personal struggle.
Easterly spoke at a press conference when he was released from the hospital in May 2023, expressing his gratitude for the support and blood donations from the community. He acknowledged the emotional toll of his recovery and the impact of the event on his life.
After the shooting, Easterly decided to retire from his role as a detective, stating,