At least four people were killed Tuesday morning in a mass stabbing in Gig Harbor, a waterfront community along Puget Sound about 15 miles northwest of Tacoma. According to the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department, deputies were dispatched just before 9 a.m. to the 14000 block of 87th Avenue Court NW after receiving a report of a protection order violation. While officers were en route, additional 911 calls reported that a man was actively stabbing people outside a residence on the quiet cul-de-sac. Authorities said three adults were pronounced dead at the scene, and a fourth victim was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition, where they later died from their injuries. Witnesses described chaotic moments, including at least one victim being attacked in the street in front of neighbors.

Officials later confirmed that the protection order referenced in the initial call had not yet been formally served to the suspect. Deputies reportedly arrived to find an active and dangerous situation unfolding. A single sheriff’s deputy shot and killed the 32-year-old suspect at approximately 9:33 a.m., bringing the violence to an end. No deputies were reported injured. The investigation has been handed over to the Pierce County Force Investigation Team, which described the scene as “very active” as evidence was processed. Gig Harbor, known for its scenic marina and small-town atmosphere, is home to roughly 12,000 residents, making the tragedy especially shocking for the close-knit community. Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims, and the investigation remains ongoing.