A body was found in a burned vehicle east of Tonasket Monday afternoon, according to the Okanogan County Sheriff's Office.
According to Sheriff Tony Hawley, Aeneas Valley Fire District No.16 was toned to a report of a vehicle fire shortly before 4:30 p.m. Monday, June 3. Firefighters then discovered a body in the trunk of the vehicle and contacted the sheriff’s office, Hawley said.
The victim’s identity has not yet been released.
“The investigation indicated an adult male was reportedly seen leaving the car fire which was reported at approximately 4:28 p.m.,” Hawley said. “Information from citizens led sheriff’s office personnel to the vicinity of the Aeneas Valley Store where the suspect was confronted.”
Hawley said the suspect, 37-year-old Lance R. Bowers, who was armed with a firearm, “did not comply with orders and displayed his firearm.”
A sergeant and deputy then fired their weapons and Bowers was shot.