SPANAWAY, WA — Authorities in Pierce County are investigating a tragic murder-suicide that left two adults dead late Thursday night in a quiet Spanaway neighborhood. Deputies say 14-year-old Kamrynn Hayes witnessed her father being fatally shot by her stepmother before the woman took her own life inside their home on 7th Avenue Court East.
According to the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called to the residence around 10:40 p.m. after reports of gunfire. When they arrived, neighbors said they heard several shots but received no response when they knocked on the door. Deputies forced their way inside and found two adults deceased — identified as 57-year-old Jaeton Wilson Sr. and his 54-year-old wife, Kamrynn’s stepmother. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.
During a search of the home, officers discovered Kamrynn Hayes hiding in a bedroom closet, frightened but physically unharmed. Investigators say the teen had witnessed the shooting and ran for safety as the violence unfolded. She has since been placed in the care of relatives and connected with trauma support services. “It’s a heartbreaking situation,” said Deputy Cole Cappetto. “Our deputies discovered a young girl who had witnessed an unimaginable act of violence. We’re making sure she receives all the help she needs.”
Detectives believe the incident was isolated to the home and that there are no outstanding suspects. Early evidence suggests the woman shot her husband before turning the gun on herself. The official cause and manner of death will be determined by the Pierce County Medical Examiner’s Office. Authorities confirmed that firearms were recovered from the scene.
The normally peaceful community was left shaken Friday morning as investigators worked through the night. Neighbors described the family as quiet and private but said they were horrified by the tragedy. “We heard the gunshots and knew something terrible had happened,” one neighbor said. “It’s just so sad, especially for that little girl.”
The Pierce County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate what led to the deadly shooting. Detectives are collecting evidence and interviewing relatives and neighbors for more insight. Officials have urged anyone with information about the case to contact the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department. Support services remain available for Kamrynn and others affected by the tragedy.