Rep. Morgan Irwin’s statement on the tragic death of Deputy Ryan Thompson
On the evening of March 19, the Kittitas County Sheriff's Department lost one of their own. Deputy Ryan Thompson, 42, responded to a road rage incident outside the town of Kittitas. As he arrived on scene, along with Kittitas Police Department Officer Benito Chavez, 22, the driver refused to stop and initiated a pursuit. They chased the driver into the town of Kittitas, where he finally stopped, got out of the vehicle, and exchanged gunfire with Deputy Thompson and Officer Chavez.
Officer Chavez was shot in the leg and airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle. He underwent surgery on Wednesday for a shattered femur and remains in satisfactory condition.
Deputy Thompson was fatally shot. He died in the line of duty protecting the citizens of Kittitas County.
Rep. Morgan Irwin, R-Enumclaw, provided the following statement on the tragedy.
“Today is a somber day for our law enforcement family across Washington state. One of our brothers in blue made the ultimate sacrifice. He lost his life fighting for, and protecting, his community. Deputy Ryan Thompson is a hero.
“My thoughts and prayers are especially with Deputy Thompson's wife and three children. I can only imagine what they are feeling with the news their hero will never return home. May you be comforted and find peace in the midst of this horrific circumstance.
“My thoughts and prayers are also with Officer Benito Chavez as he recovers from his injuries. He has a long road to recovery ahead of him. I hope he knows he has full support from law enforcement, his communities and the citizens of this state for putting himself in harm's way protecting his community.
“And, finally to all the brave men and women of law enforcement across our state, who go to work each day as the protectors of society never knowing if that day may be their last, thank you for your service.”
