Redmond Police Chief Provides Update on September 2020 OIS

Message from the Police Chief

Redmond Police Chief Provides Update on September 2020 Officer-Involved Shooting

September 23, 2021

Redmond, WA - This week marks the anniversary of the officer-involved shooting that resulted in the death of 39-year-old Andrea Churna. My thoughts remain with the Churna family and loved ones and with my officers and dispatchers involved in this incident.

Per Initiative No. 940, the King County Sheriff's Office has conducted an independent investigation of the officers' actions and the events that led to Ms. Churna's death. The case has been presented to the King County Prosecuting Attorney's Office. The Prosecutor's Office will determine if any criminal charges will be filed against any officers. The Prosecutor's Office has not provided a timeline for that decision.

The City has begun an internal review process that will focus on our response, tactics, and adherence to policy and procedures. I have enlisted the services of Force Science Institute to provide an independent force review and analysis.

I realize that a deliberate and thorough process can also feel like closure is being delayed for those most impacted by this event. I remain committed to a comprehensive and transparent review of this incident to ensure the tactics used and the officers' actions were appropriate.

I will share a comprehensive summary of this event with the Redmond community as soon as I am able.

Sincerely,

Police Chief Darrell Lowe

Media contact: AnnMarie Fein, RPD Community Engagement Sergeant, 425-556-2582, afein@redmond.gov

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