Edmonds Police ID Slain Teen As Gala Zuehlke

EDMONDS, WA — An unnamed 16-year-old boy from Mountlake Terrace is wanted in connection with the shooting death of 17-year-old Gala Zuehlke of Edmonds, according to police. Zuehlke was found dead in her apartment around 4 p.m. Friday.

Described as an accident, the shooting reportedly occurred at the Horizon Park Apartments in the 7400-block of 208th Street Southwest, near Edmonds Community College and across the street from College Place Middle School. Zuehlke reportedly lived there with her father.

Police say Zuehlke and the boy suspected of killing her were acquainted, but Zuehlke's mother — who's never met the boy — doesn't believe it was an accident at all.

"Someone hurt her," Amanda Intveld told KOMO News on Sunday. "I don't think in my heart that it was an accident."

Intveld also told reporters she doesn't believe her daughter and the boy were romantically involved, though she's comforted somewhat in knowing investigators have identified a suspect.

"At least we know who it was" she said.

A former student at Edmonds-Woodway High School, Zuehlke was a senior and full-time student with the school's e-Learning program. On Saturday, Edmonds-Woodway High School Principal Terrance Mims sent to parents a statement notification of Zuehlke's death.

Along with identifying Zuehlke, Mims' statement acknowledged the 16-year-old suspect. Mims also advised parents and students that grief counseling will be available at the school for those who need it.

The suspect's parents reportedly told police the boy went missing nearly two weeks ago, which they reported to authorities. They've been working with law enforcement to find him.

WATCH: Gala Zuehlke's mother, Amanda Intveld, speaks with KOMO News

(Sign up for our free daily newsletters and Breaking News Alerts for the Edmonds Patch)

Image via Renee Schiavone/Patch