Police & Fire

Gig Harbor Now reporters stay alert to crimes and emergencies and relay information that allows readers to understand and react to incidents.

State board investigating seven cases involving Sheriff Keith Swank

Mar 09, 2026 | By: Carolyn Bick

Swank called the cases before the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission a ‘complete witch hunt.’

Pierce County Council approves public safety sales tax after hours of discussion

Mar 04, 2026 | By: Carolyn Bick

The 0.1% sales tax levy will go into effect on July 1, with proceeds going toward the sheriff’s office, jail and other public safety purposes.

City arts commissioners, local volunteer among those killed in Key Peninsula stabbing

Mar 02, 2026 | By: Vince Dice

City arts commissioners Stephanie Killilea and Joanne Brandani and community volunteer Louise Talley were among those who died on Feb. 24 near Lake Kathryn.

Here’s how Gig Harbor Fire is covering the city while Kimball Drive’s Station 51 is being rebuilt

Mar 02, 2026 | By: Suzanne Roig

While a new Station 51 is under construction, Gig Harbor Fire crews are covering the city from its other stations.

Victim in stabbing near Wauna had protection order against her son

Feb 26, 2026 | By: Vince Dice

In her application for a protection order, the 52-year-old woman said believed he was a god and previously had threatened family members with a knife.

Gig Harbor Police Blotter | Driver killed in wreck near Purdy identified

Feb 26, 2026 | By: Vince Dice

Also in this week’s blotter: DUIs, a series of shoplifts and a case of mistaken identity.

Five dead in incident near Lake Kathryn

Feb 24, 2026 | By: Vince Dice

An unknown number of people died in an incident near Lake Kathryn on the Key Peninsula Thursday; a deputy reportedly shot the suspect.

Gig Harbor family among those stranded amid drug violence in Mexico

Feb 23, 2026 | By: Gig Harbor Now Staff

The death of a cartel leader left many tourists in Puerto Vallarta and other cities in Mexico fearing for their safety.

Kitsap County, jail medical provider to pay family of deceased inmate $2.75 million

Feb 20, 2026 | By: Conor Wilson

Kitsap County and contractor NaphCare agreed to pay the family $2.75 million to settle the lawsuit that accused them of negligence contributing to the death of a 34-year-old man at the jail.

County council recommends approving public safety sales tax proposal

Feb 19, 2026 | By: Carolyn Bick

The council voted 4-3 to recommend approving the 0.1% sales tax, proceeds from which would help hire sheriff deputies. It will formally take up the proposal next month.

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