Police & Fire

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

Family member arrested in homicides discovered after fire at Gig Harbor home

May 20, 2025 | By:

The 25-year-old suspect is the son and brother of the victims, the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office said.

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Trading jabs during the Battle of the Badges

May 20, 2025 | By:

Gig Harbor police and firefighters competed to see who would give the most blood during the annual Battle of the Badges on Monday.

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California clinic bomber mentioned Fox Island murder victim in his online manifesto

May 19, 2025 | By:

Guy Edward Bartkus called Sophie Tinney, who was killed on Fox Island last month, a close friend. Her death may have contributed to his decision to bomb the clinic.

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Gig Harbor Police Blotter | A man and a dog walked into a bar. This guy punched the man

May 08, 2025 | By:

A customer at a tavern objected when he saw another patron bring his dog onto the deck in violation of a no pets policy.

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Transcript: Our interview with Pierce County Sheriff Keith Swank

May 01, 2025 | By:

A transcript of Carolyn Bick’s interview with Pierce County Sheriff Keith Swank on Wednesday, April 30, 2025.

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County council affirms commitment to state’s sanctuary law over sheriff’s objection

May 01, 2025 | By:

The council voted to uphold the Keep Washington Working Act, despite objections from Sheriff Swank, who called it unconstitutional.

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In interview, Sheriff Swank stands by controversial statements

May 01, 2025 | By:

Our interview with Sheriff Keith Swank touched on sanctuary cities, January 6, Nancy Pelosi and his previous statements, which he has said were purposefully provocative.

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Both victims found following house fire died of gunshot wounds

Apr 28, 2025 | By:

The Pierce County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled the deaths of Oliverio Huitron-Rosalez and Alejandro Huitron Campos as homicides.

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COPS volunteers a force multiplier for Gig Harbor police

Apr 24, 2025 | By:

Six volunteers in the police department’s COPS (or Citizens Offering Police Support) program help keep commissioned officers on the street.

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Happy to be alive, Meissner family recovering from devastating house fire

Apr 22, 2025 | By:

A GoFundMe account has been set up to help Uwe, Gunda and Mark Meissner cope until they can rebuild on the Artondale site.

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