On the night of August 14–15, 2026, 18-year-old Trent Richardson of Ridgefield, Washington, was shot and killed at Hockinson Meadows Community Park in Brush Prairie. A large gathering of teenagers and young adults had been at the park; witnesses reported drinking and setting off fireworks. Richardson was struck once in the chest and pronounced dead at the scene shortly after 1 a.m. He was a recent Battle Ground High School graduate, wore number 18 on the football team, and was studying to become a firefighter.

Investigators arrested another 18-year-old, James Gill III, a friend and fellow Battle Ground graduate. According to court documents, Gill told authorities Richardson handed him a Glock 17 to look at and the gun discharged after someone bumped into him. Gill was booked on suspicion of second-degree manslaughter and made a first court appearance wearing a suicide prevention smock.

Hundreds attended a candlelight vigil at the Battle Ground High School football stadium. Richardson’s parents told the crowd they believed the shooting was a tragic accident and asked people to keep both families in their thoughts. Does anyone who attended the park that night or who knew Trent or James have information to share?