Dayton Chronicle - Your Hometown News Source

Washington State Patrol Chief John R. Batiste said in a recent news release regarding the shooting of Trooper Dean Atkinson in Walla Walla Thursday, September 22, that the officer had been evening. Trooper airlifted to Harborview and is in stable condition.

"This evening we were once again reminded of how dangerous the profession of law enforcement can be when one of our troopers was involved in a critical incident while on duty in Walla Walla," Batiste said. "We were also reminded of how strong and resolute our people can be when Trooper Dean Atkinson though seriously injured, found the strength to drive himself to the hospital. Trooper Atkinson is a five-year veteran of the Washington State Patrol and I am both relieved and happy to announce he is now in stable condition.

"Let me say thank you to the outpouring of support from the public," Batiste continued. "I am sure it is and will be appreciated by Trooper Atkinson and his loved ones and indeed all of the men and women in law enforcement in our state. Though there is certainly danger and cruelty in our world, there is also courage and grace, and for that we are thankful just as we are thankful for this fine young trooper's service and survival."

An independent investigation of the incident is being conducted by the Special Investigations Unit of the Walla Walla Police Department. The unit released the following:

On September 22, 2022, at 5:07 p.m., Walla Walla area police officers were dispatched to a report of an officer shot on West Poplar Street near Avery. Further information provided by witnesses indicated the victim was a Washington State Patrol Trooper, later identified as Trooper Dean Atkinson Jr.

Local officers responded to the scene and secured evidence related to the incident. Several minutes later, Milton-Freewater, Oregon police officers attempted to stop a vehicle matching the description from the shooting. Local officers responded towards the Oregon state line and were involved in a short vehicle pursuit with the vehicle before the pursuit came to an end on Hwy 125 north of Stateline Rd.

Brandon Dennis O'Neel, DOB 7-16-1985, was taken into custody and transported to the Walla Walla County Jail where he will be booked on allegations stemming from his suspected involved in this incident. Trooper Atkinson was treated at Providence St. Mary Medical Center in Walla Walla and then transported to Harborview Medical Center for additional care.

Walla Walla Police Chief Chris Buttice requested the assistance of the regional Special Investigations Unit or SIU to conduct the investigation of this incident. Any additional information will be released by the SIU as it becomes available.