On July 3, 2023, at 2:12 a.m., Easter M. Iosefa, 35, from Seattle, Washington came to Bellingham to visit the victim, a 21-year-old male, in the 500 block of York St. An argument ensued shortly after Iosefa’s arrival at the residence in the 500 block of York Street. During the argument, Iosefa fired several rounds from a small, black handgun and struck the victim in the thigh. Iosefa was arrested at the scene for assault first degree – domestic violence, reckless endangerment, and malicious mischief third degree.
Investigation
Bellingham Police officers were sent to an assault with a firearm in the 500 block of York Street, at 2:12 a.m., on July 3, 2023, witnesses reported seeing a woman, identified as Iosefa, arguing with a 21-year-old male outside the residence. She was waving around a small, black handgun from which she fired several rounds in the direction of the male. One of the rounds struck him in the thigh.
As officers arrived, Iosefa fled the area and witnesses helped the victim. Officers saw Iosefa, called out to her and she complied with commands given and was arrested without incident. The gun was not located on her person. Other BPD officers tended to the first aid needs of the victim to stop the bleeding and check for other injuries. Bellingham Fire Department Medics transported the victim to PeaceHealth St Joseph’s Medical Center Emergency Department for emergent medical treatment of a survivable wound.
Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office K-9 team of K-9 Apex and his partner were called to assist with finding the handgun. K-9 Apex found it in the 1500 block of Humboldt Street, right in the path Iosefa took to flee the area.
One of the rounds fired went through a windowpane of a house nearby the shooting. The occupants of the home, while frightened for their lives, were fortunately not injured. Iosefa was arrested for assault 1st degree – domestic violence, reckless endangerment, and malicious mischief third degree, where she remains without bail.
Resources
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, you can contact the following local resources for free, confidential support:
Lummi Victims of Crime, 360.312.2015
Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Services, 360.715.1563
WWU CASAS, 360.650.3700
Brigid Collins Family Support Center 360.734.4616
