Benjamin Roberts dies in fatal Cain Lake shooting

Benjamin Roberts dies in fatal Cain Lake shooting

Fatal Cain Lake shooting death of Benjamin Roberts – Obituary

Benjamin Roberts, 34, from Concrete, Washington, was fatally shot by law enforcement near Cain Lake following a police pursuit on Saturday night, authorities confirmed.

According to the Snohomish County Multiple Agency Response Team (SMART), the incident began when Washington State Patrol attempted to stop Roberts on northbound Interstate 5 near Mount Vernon. He was suspected of operating a stolen motorcycle and refused to pull over, prompting a chase.

Roberts abandoned the motorcycle on Alger Cain Lake Road near Camp 2 Road and then entered Cain Lake using a boat. Law enforcement officials reported that he began firing a handgun in various directions while on the water.

The Whatcom County SWAT team responded to the situation. Officers returned fire, striking Roberts. Authorities were able to reach him, bring him back to shore, and administer emergency medical care. He was transported by ambulance but later died from his injuries.

Witnesses in the area reported hearing over ten gunshots and observed a helicopter hovering for nearly two hours during the incident.

No one else was injured. Since officers from multiple agencies were involved, including the Washington State Patrol and the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office, the investigation is being conducted by SMART.