15-year-old Andrew Humiston arrested for killing his family of 5 in Fall City

A quiet neighborhood in Fall City, Washington, has been shattered by a heartbreaking tragedy that claimed the lives of three children and two adults early Monday morning. The victims, all members of the Humiston family, were identified as 7-year-old Katheryn, 9-year-old Joshua, 13-year-old Benjamin, and their parents, 43-year-old Mark and 42-year-old Sarah Humiston. All five were killed by gunshot wounds in their home, according to the King County Medical Examiner’s Office.

In a horrific turn of events, the family’s 11-year-old daughter managed to escape the violent scene after being shot. She sought refuge at a neighbor’s home, where she received help and was quickly transported to a nearby hospital. The young girl was treated for her injuries and has since been discharged, but the trauma she endured is immeasurable.

Shockingly, the family’s 15-year-old son, Andrew Humiston, has been charged in connection with the deaths of his immediate family members. He faces five counts of first-degree aggravated murder and one count of first-degree attempted murder, with firearm enhancements and a domestic violence designation on each charge. Prosecutors have indicated that they are considering transferring the case to adult court, depending on the findings of the upcoming legal evaluations. Andrew’s next court appearance is set for October 25 at the Clark Child and Family Justice Center.

At his initial court appearance, Andrew waived his right to be physically present and was represented by defense attorneys. Judge Joe Campagna found probable cause to hold Andrew in secure detention and issued a no-contact order with any surviving family members.

The tragedy unfolded on the 7700 block of Lake Alice Road Southeast, near the Lake Alice boat launch. Authorities responded to multiple 911 calls around 5 a.m. on Monday, initially believing the incident might involve a suicide. However, upon further investigation, deputies confirmed the case was a fatal shooting involving the entire family. The area, typically quiet and peaceful, had no prior history of serious incidents involving law enforcement, according to Mike Mellis, a spokesperson for the King County Sheriff’s Office.

The devastating loss has left the close-knit community of Fall City in mourning. A candlelight vigil was held at Fall City United Methodist Church to honor the Humiston family. Additionally, a community gathering for Snoqualmie Valley residents is scheduled for Saturday, offering a space for those affected by the tragedy to come together, grieve, and support one another.