Battle Ground Police Investigate Series Of Animal Shootings Involving Blow Darts (Photo) - 02/19/26

On February 17, 2026, Battle Ground Police (BGPD) detectives, assisted by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, served a search warrant at a residence in the 100 block of SE 17th Way following a months-long investigation into a series of animal shootings reported throughout Battle Ground.

Items consistent with this case, including two blowguns, were recovered from the residence and taken as evidence.  Detectives are working toward identifying suspects in this case, and the investigation is still ongoing. 

Background

On November 1, 2025, BGPD Officers responded to a residential neighborhood near South Parkway Avenue and SE 17th Way after residents reported observing multiple young men, described as 18 to 25 years of age, shooting raccoons and squirrels with a blow dart gun.  Several razor-tipped darts were located at the scene, some embedded in the siding of nearby homes, on rooftops, and in surrounding trees.

Over the course of the investigation, investigators received additional reports of similar incidents in the same area. Residents described seeing injured raccoons, squirrels, and an adult deer, pierced by blow darts. Additionally, residents reportedly observed unknown subjects discharging pellet guns and possibly a .22-caliber rifle in the general area where these incidents occurred.

Reports of injured animals seen around Florence Robison Park, located near NW 9th Street and NW 20th Avenue, less than two miles from the original incidents, were also received.  There, four ducks were discovered, still alive, each with blow darts lodged in their breast or body.  BGPD’s Community Services Officers (CSO) were able to capture one duck and transport it for medical evaluation and treatment. The remaining three ducks have not yet been recovered.

Violations and Penalties

It is unlawful for any person to discharge a firearm within the city limits of Battle Ground (BGMC 9.24.010). This includes the discharge of BB guns, air compression rifles or guns, blow darts, or similar devices.  Any person who is found in violation of this municipal code may face gross misdemeanor charges.

Given the volume and seriousness of this case, the suspect(s) may also face charges of Reckless Endangerment (9A.36.050) and 1^st/2^nd Degree Animal Cruelty (16.52.205/207).  Additional wildlife violations, including potential hunting or permitting infractions, may apply, as determined by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.  

Public Assistance

The Battle Ground Police Department urges anyone with information on this case to contact Detective Josh Phelps by emailing joshua.phelps@cityofbg.org.

To report injured wildlife, please contact the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife Enforcement office at 360-902-2936 or submit a report through their online reporting tool, available at www.wdfw.wa.gov/get-involved/report-observations.

The Battle Ground Police Department extends its appreciation to the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife for its valuable assistance throughout this investigation.

Due to the ongoing investigation, no additional information is available at this time.

City Of Battle Ground Receives Award For Excellence In Financial Reporting - 02/11/26

The City of Battle Ground is proud to announce that the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) has awarded the City with a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for its annual comprehensive financial report for the fiscal year ending on December 31, 2024.

The award recognizes the City for demonstrating a spirit of transparency and full disclosure in its 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and is the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting, an honor the City of Battle Ground has received each year, since 2002.

“Sustained financial excellence doesn’t happen by accident,” said City Manager Kris Swanson.  “This recognition highlights the expertise and diligence of our Finance team, led by Finance Director Meagan Lowery, and their ongoing work to safeguard the City’s financial health.”

The City’s 2024 ACFR is available online at www.cityofbg.org/165/Financial-Reports.

City Of Battle Ground Seeks Applicants For Lodging Tax Advisory Committee - 02/09/26

The City of Battle Ground is seeking applicants for two Tourism Generator positions on the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC). These positions must be filled by individuals who work for or operate an organization eligible to receive the lodging tax grant funding.  Committee membership guidelines are established by Washington State law under RCW 67.28.1817.

The city is authorized to collect a 4% lodging tax on hotel, motel, and bed-and-breakfast stays. The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee is a five-member volunteer body that makes recommendations to the Battle Ground City Council regarding the use of these funds.

Applications must be submitted by February 23, 2026.

Qualified applicants will be considered for an appointment by the mayor, whose appointment will be confirmed by the council.  Applicants who are not appointed through this process may be considered for future LTAC vacancies for up to one year from the date their application is submitted.

To apply online, visit www.cityofbg.org/LTAC. To request an application or obtain additional information, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at cityclerk.info@cityofbg.org or 360-342-5000.

Battle Ground Police Investigate Fatal Auto/Pedestrian Collision - 02/06/26

On February 6, 2026, at approximately 12:26 p.m., officers with the Battle Ground Police Department were dispatched to Walmart, located at SW 10th Avenue and SW Scotton Way, following a report that a pedestrian had been struck by a vehicle in the parking lot.

Officers arrived and located an injured adult male (pedestrian). Medical personnel responded within minutes and transported the man to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.

The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and is cooperating with the investigators.

Battle Ground Police Department detectives are conducting the investigation. At this time, neither excessive speed nor impairment are suspected as contributing factors.

The identity of the deceased will be released by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office.

No additional information is available at this time.

City Of Battle Ground Prepares For 75th Anniversary Celebration (Photo) - 01/29/26

The City of Battle Ground proudly announces the upcoming 75th anniversary of its incorporation — a milestone marking seven and a half decades of community growth, shared heritage, and forward-looking progress. On June 18, 1951, the Town of Battle Ground was officially incorporated with a population of just 742 residents, setting the foundation for a vibrant city that now thrives with tens of thousands of residents and businesses. 

“We are thrilled to honor 75 years of cityhood — a story of community spirit, civic pride, and endless potential,” said Eric Overholser, Mayor of Battle Ground. “This anniversary isn’t just a celebration of our history — it’s a celebration of the shared legacy Battle Ground is creating each and every day.”

A Year-Long Celebration Begins

Throughout 2026, the City will host a series of community engagement activities, events, and experiences designed to honor the past, highlight the present, and inspire the future. While specific activities are still being finalized, the celebration will focus on:

• Celebrating Our History – Sharing stories, milestones, and achievements from Battle Ground’s journey from a small town to a thriving city. 
• Community Involvement – Encouraging residents of all ages to participate in events that showcase the heart of our city — our people.
• Looking Forward – Highlighting visions, plans, and ideas that will carry Battle Ground into its next chapter.

This anniversary also provides a unique opportunity to learn more about how Battle Ground got its name — inspired by an 1855 encounter between early settlers and members of the Klickitat tribe that, despite expectations of conflict, resulted in peace and left a lasting mark on local history. 

Stay Connected — Be Part of the Story

Details about anniversary events and ways to participate will be shared throughout the year on the City’s official website and social media channels. Residents are encouraged to follow along for announcements, event schedules, volunteer opportunities, and special highlights.

“We are excited to share this milestone with our residents and community partners,” shared Alisha Smith, Communications Manager.  “This anniversary is about coming together, and we invite everyone to take part in the celebration throughout the year.

Visit www.cityofbg.org/BG75 to explore Battle Ground’s history and sign up for updates. Follow the City on Facebook and Instagram pages for the latest on upcoming activities and ways to get involved.

UPDATE - Battle Ground Police Arrest 41-Year-Old In Child Sexual Assault Investigation (Photo) - 01/22/26

Update 1/22/2026 - 1:55pm - The Battle Ground Police Department is releasing a photo of suspect Christopher Lee Morrissey (41) that was obtained from social media.  

Anyone with information about Morrissey or this investigation, including potential victims, is encouraged to contact Battle Ground Police Department Detective Sergeant Josh Phelps at (360) 342-5241 or by email at joshua.phelps@cityofbg.org.

#### Original Release Below #####

On January 21, 2026, detectives with the Battle Ground Police Department arrested Christopher Lee Morrissey (41) on suspicion of Rape of a Child in the Third Degree. The arrest stems from an investigation that began in 2022 involving a 14-year-old victim.  Morrissey was booked into the Clark County Jail.

Detectives continue to actively investigate the case. Investigators are aware that Morrissey has lived in the Southwest Washington area for several years and detectives believe there may be other individuals who have relevant information, including potential additional victims.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Battle Ground Police Department Detective Sergeant Josh Phelps at (360) 342-5241 or by email at joshua.phelps@cityofbg.org.

As with any criminal investigation, the Battle Ground Police Department emphasizes that an arrest does not constitute a conviction, and Morrissey is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.