Autopsy report released for West Richland man shot by officer

An autopsy report released Friday confirms a 46-year-old man died from a gunshot wound and he was shot in his torso, as well as, in his right arm. The Benton County coroner says the manner of death is a homicide.

The Benton County Coroner John Hansens confirmed that Douglas West, who was shot, died early Wednesday morning after the incident on Tuesday.

Benton County Sheriff deputies say that West Richland officers were called out to a home late Tuesday night by West’s wife. She had said she barricaded herself in a bedroom after a physical domestic disturbance incident. She also told police her husband was armed with a shotgun and handgun and stated he would “go down swinging,” if officers came into the home.

When officers arrived, the man armed with a shotgun, came out of the home and did not listen to police orders to drop the weapon. Deputy Clary fired shots, and that is when West fell to the ground.

After the scene was secure, West was rushed to Kadlec Medical Center for his injuries. His wife was found safe in the home and officers say no one else was hurt.

Per Department Policy, the regional Special Investigations Unit responded to the scene and is investigating the officer involved shooting.  The SIU investigation is being led by the Richland Police Department.