Seattle Police Capture Armed Suspect After Dramatic Water Escape Attempt
A man, identified as 33-year-old Robert Yares Lopez, was arrested after allegedly shooting at a Seattle Police officer and then diving into Lake Washington in an attempt to evade capture
🔥 Incident Overview
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The encounter began around 6:25 a.m. on June 20, near Pritchard Beach in South Seattle, when officers responded to a domestic disturbance call involving Lopez and a woman he reportedly assaulted .
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During the attempted arrest, an officer deployed a Taser, at which point Lopez allegedly pulled a firearm and fired a shot toward the officer. Fortunately, no officers were injured, and they did not return fire
🚀 High-Speed Escape by Water
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Lopez fled on foot, pursued through the woods and residential yards with support from K-9 units, Seattle Police, Tukwila Police, and King County Sheriff’s deputies
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He ran toward the Atlantic City Boat Ramp, dove off a dock, and began swimming in Lake Washington, captured on the Guardian 1 helicopter live feed
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After about 30 minutes in the cold water, officers reached him near the dock and took him into custody. He was then transported by paramedics to a hospital for evaluation before being booked into jail on $750,000 bail
👁️🗨️ Footage Highlights
This bodycam/helicopter video captures key moments of the suspect fleeing on foot and diving into the lake, conveying the intensity of the standoff.
⚖️ Legal Details & Charges
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Lopez faces charges including assaulting a police officer, unlawful possession of a firearm, and domestic violence-related offenses.
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Additional allegations include strangulation, pistol-whipping, and witness tampering, with prosecutors successfully requesting bail to be raised to $1 million
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Lopez has a documented history of violent offenses, including 18 prior warrants and previous convictions for assault and weapons charges .
🗓️ What Comes Next
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Lopez is scheduled for an arraignment on July 8, with formal charges expected at that time.
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Active investigations into the domestic assault and removal of the victim’s protection orders are underway, as authorities collect evidence and statements from involved parties.
🔍 Community and Official Response
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The incident marks the second time Seattle officers were shot at during separate domestic violence responses that morning
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Seattle Police and local residents are praising the coordinated effort among multiple agencies—K-9 units, helicopter support, and response teams—that led to a safe resolution without officer injury .
This extraordinary arrest highlights both the danger faced by officers during domestic calls and the extreme measures suspects may take to avoid capture. Investigation continues, and court proceedings are expected to provide further clarity on the suspect’s charges and motive.
If you witnessed any portion of this event or have relevant information, please contact the Seattle Police Department or submit anonymous tips through King County Crime Stoppers.