WEST RICHLAND, Wash. – A woman is dead after being shot near William Wiley Elementary School in West Richland, according to the West Richland Police Department.
Police believe that the shooting was an isolated incident. The suspect, who was reported to be 40-year-old Elias Huizar, reportedly fled the scene according to a WRPD press conference.
WRPD confirmed with NonStop Local that Huizar is the former Yakima Police officer that was charged in February with child rape. His trial was set for Mon., April 22, however was stricken, according to court documents.
Court documents detailing the February incident say officers were made aware of a possible sexual assault by Huizar of a teenager on Feb. 3 with reports that his underage girlfriend caught him assaulting her 16-year-old friend in his home.
Huizar worked as a police officer for almost nine years, from June 2013 to February 2022.
The Richland School District pushed out multiple statements to parents via text throughout the shooting incident:
“During dismissal today, there was a shooting at William Wiley Elementary School in West Richland. The perpetrator is still at large. Schools placed in critical lockdown. We will send updates.”
“We are currently in communication with the West Richland Police Department to create a plan to reunite students with their families as soon as possible. Your children’s safety is our top priority. Please stay tuned for information.”
“All West Richland school activities and events have been canceled. Practices and activities in schools located within the city of Richland have been moved indoors. More updates to come.”
“We have received a report that an adult was shot outside of William Wiley Elementary. Schools are still in lockdown. Updates will continue to come as we learn more.”
“West Richland Police Department believe to know who the perpetrator and have their house lock-downed. The perpetrator is still at large. The district is working on the reunification efforts. Another update will be sent soon.”
This is a developing story, which means information could change. We are working to report timely and accurate information as we get it.
