Sunnyside, WA – On Monday, August 4, 2025, the Yakima County Sheriff’s Office responded to a disturbing report of an assault involving a firearm in a rural part of the Sunnyside area. What began as a call for assistance quickly escalated into a homicide investigation after deputies arrived and discovered a man dead from apparent homicidal violence.
The victim, a 55-year-old male resident of Sunnyside, had reportedly gone out on an ATV to investigate a suspicious male subject who was observed by witnesses lingering in an orchard north of Maple Grove, an area known for its quiet, agricultural landscape.
According to statements collected at the scene, concerned individuals noticed the unfamiliar person loitering near the orchard and alerted the victim. The victim, acting on those concerns, used his ATV to search the nearby property for the suspicious individual. Tragically, a short time later, the victim was found deceased, the result of a violent confrontation.
Responding law enforcement immediately secured the area and conducted an extensive search for the suspect, utilizing drones, K9 tracking units, and ground personnel. Despite these efforts, the suspicious male subject was not located, and no suspect has been arrested at this time.
The Yakima County Sheriff’s Office Detective Division processed and documented the crime scene with careful attention. Authorities have not yet released the victim’s identity, pending official confirmation and family notification. The incident remains an active and ongoing homicide investigation, and detectives are working diligently to follow leads and gather evidence.
“This is a deeply concerning and tragic event for the Sunnyside community,” said a spokesperson for the Sheriff’s Office. “We are doing everything in our power to bring answers and justice to the victim’s family, and we are urging the public to come forward with any information—no matter how small it may seem.”
How You Can Help:
The Yakima County Sheriff’s Office is requesting public assistance in identifying and locating the person responsible for this heinous act. Anyone who may have seen anything suspicious in the area of Maple Grove or has information related to the incident is encouraged to contact Detective Bazan at (509) 574-2569.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers of Yakima County by calling (509) 248-9980, 1-800-248-9980, or visiting the official website at:
As this investigation continues, the Yakima County Sheriff’s Office will provide updates as new information becomes available. Authorities are urging local residents to remain vigilant and report any unusual activity in the area.
Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and friends during this difficult time.
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