Suspect Accidentally Shoots Himself In The Head After Seattle Break-In

SEATTLE, WA —Seattle police said they have arrested a suspect whom they believe accidentally shot himself in the head Wednesday after committing a North Seattle break-in.

The suspect, who has not been named, remains in the hospital, according to police. When he recovers, the suspect will be booked into the King County Jail on charges of burglary, unlawful possession of a firearm, felony harassment and possession of a stolen vehicle, police said.

According to police reports, just before 7 a.m. Wednesday, a resident in the 8200 block of Mary Avenue Northwest heard unusual sounds coming from his garage, and he discovered signs of a break-in.

As the resident approached the garage, the masked suspect appeared, and then he turned and ran, police said. The resident grabbed a broom handle and chased the suspect, who ran to a van parked in a nearby lot.

As the suspect got into the van, police said he grabbed a gun and pointed it at the resident, telling the resident to get back.

The resident then turned around. While facing away from the suspect, the resident heard a gunshot, according to police. The suspect then sped away in the van.

Police said the resident returned home and called 911. Officers at the scene took down a description of the suspect.

At around that time, officers said they received a call about a man who had arrived at First Hill Hospital with a gunshot wound to the head.

Officers then went to the hospital and discovered that the injured man was wearing the same clothing as the suspect in the burglary.

Police said they believe the suspect had fired his handgun while climbing into the van, accidentally shooting himself in the head.

Officers also discovered that the van in which the suspect fled the scene of the alleged break-in had been reported stolen. Additionally, they learned the suspect is a convicted felon and unable to legally possess firearms.