Boy, 16, killed near Moses Lake
Detectives investigating a shooting Sunday morning where a 16-year-old boy was killed. Police have not determined any possible suspects at this time and are still investigating.
MOSES LAKE - Authorities are trying to figure out who shot and killed a 16-year-old Moses Lake boy early Sunday morning.
The sheriff's office identified the victim as Brandon Michael Mende, of Moses Lake. Mende was found dead with an apparent gunshot wound about 3 a.m. Sunday in the front yard of a home in the 6000 block of Turnkey Road Northeast near the Larson Housing area. A vehicle was found parked nearby with the lights on and the driver's side door open when police arrived, according to the sheriff's office. The vehicle was reportedly not Mende's.
Detectives believe the shooting was a targeted act. No suspects are in custody at this time and the investigation is ongoing.
The sheriff's office confirmed Sunday night Mende was also the victim in the drive-by shooting Jan. 20, also in the Larson Housing area. Mende was shot twice while riding his bike on Arlington Drive and was able to flee into a nearby home. Mende sustained gunshot wounds to his arm and shoulder in the incident. No suspects are in custody in the Jan. 20 shooting.
Mende was reportedly still wearing a cast on his arm Sunday morning, still recovering from the previous gunshot wounds.
An autopsy was scheduled for Sunday.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the sheriff's office at 509-762-1160 or send information to crimetips@co.grant.wa.us and reference case number 14GS01790. Tipsters can remain anonymous.