The Washington State Patrol is investigating a shooting that occurred during a bonfire gathering in Capitol State Forest on December 6, 2024, injuring an 18-year-old man from Centralia. The shooting happened around 10 p. m. after an argument escalated, leading a 22-year-old man to allegedly fire a weapon and injure the victim in the foot. The suspect was arrested the following day and is currently held in Thurston County Jail on charges of second-degree assault.

Detectives are appealing to the public for witnesses or additional information, especially those who may have photos or videos from that night. Given the large number of attendees, investigators believe there may be valuable eyewitness accounts that could assist in the case. This incident raises concerns about safety at public gatherings, and the Washington State Patrol urges anyone with information to come forward to help clarify the events surrounding the shooting.