Fatal Shooting in Mount Vernon, WA: Mount Vernon, WA – A shooting at a faith-based addiction recovery facility in Mount Vernon has left two individuals injured and one suspect in custody. The incident, which occurred early on Tuesday morning, December 24, 2024, at the New Earth Recovery home, has sent shockwaves through the community.
Details of the Shooting Incident
Around 9 a.m. on Tuesday, gunfire erupted at the New Earth Recovery home, located in the 1600 block of South Third Street, near Vera Street. Two residents of the facility, aged 50 and 53, were injured in the shooting. Both victims sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were transported to Skagit Valley Hospital for treatment.
Mount Vernon police responded promptly to the scene and apprehended the suspect, a 49-year-old man, who was arrested at the facility. The suspect is facing serious charges, including attempted first-degree murder and first-degree assault.
Impact on the New Earth Recovery Facility
The New Earth Recovery home, a long-standing faith-based organization that has been serving the Skagit Valley for over 13 years, has been shaken by the violence. The facility provides a supportive environment for men who have been in recovery for at least a year. At the time of the shooting, there were seven residents at the home.
Alan Muia, the facility’s director, expressed his shock and concern following the incident. “This is just not what they sign up for,” Muia shared in a statement to KOMO News. He emphasized that the New Earth Recovery home has a history of operating without incident and that the staff and residents are committed to maintaining a safe environment.
The Investigation and Arrest
Mount Vernon Police Department officials have confirmed that all involved parties have been contacted and are under investigation. The suspect remains in custody and will be booked into Skagit Valley Jail. Authorities are continuing their investigation to understand the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Community Reactions and Safety Concerns
The shooting has deeply affected both the residents and staff at the New Earth Recovery home, as the facility has always been considered a safe space for those seeking to rebuild their lives. The broader Mount Vernon community is rallying around the facility and offering support as they process the unexpected violence.
Conclusion: A Shocking Event at a Place of Healing
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the unexpected violence that can occur anywhere, even in spaces designed to offer healing and recovery. As authorities continue their investigation, the New Earth Recovery facility remains committed to supporting its residents and ensuring their safety.
The Mount Vernon Police Department’s swift response and the arrest of the suspect have brought some sense of security to the community, but the emotional impact of the incident is still being felt. The recovery home’s director and staff remain focused on providing a safe, supportive environment for those in need, despite the shock of this devastating event.
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