A confrontation with law enforcement in Spanaway, Washington, on July 15, 2024, ended with the death of 38-year-old Dante Cudini. Deputies from Pierce County tried to contact Cudini near Mountain Highway East while he was a criminal suspect; they reportedly deployed spike strips but his vehicle fled. Authorities say his vehicle struck a deputy, causing minor injuries, and a pursuit proceeded east on 260th Street, stopping near 70th Avenue East in the Elk Plain area.

Cudini is reported to have exited his vehicle and run into a nearby house. Deputies say shots were fired at 2:57 p.m.; medical aid was given but Cudini died of multiple gunshot wounds. The Pierce County Medical Examiner ruled the manner of death homicide. No other suspects were reported. The deputies who fired were placed on administrative leave and the Pierce County Force Investigation Team is handling the inquiry. Cudini’s criminal history was noted but the suspected offense prompting the contact was not specified.

If anyone witnessed the pursuit, the encounter at the house, or has other information about what happened that afternoon, please share it.