UPDATE - Arrest Made In Fatal Shooting Near The 19700 Block Of NE Davis Road (Photo) - 04/27/26

Update 4/27/26 TIME 6:00 p.m.

The Clark County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit has arrested a suspect in connection with a homicide that occurred in a residence earlier today in the 19700 block of NE Davis Road.

Brian E. Kangas, 34, of Battle Ground, Washington, was taken into custody for the alleged murder of Gary R. Bender, 73.

At approximately 11:13 a.m., Clark Regional Emergency Services Agency (CRESA) received a 911 call from a neighboring residence reporting gunshots heard. Deputies responded and located Bender inside his home with apparent gunshot wounds to his chest. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Witnesses reported Kangas and Bender were alone inside the residence prior to the shooting. After the incident, Kangas was seen leaving the area on a bicycle.

Deputies located Kangas near the intersection of NE 182nd Avenue and Risto Road. He was taken into custody without incident at approximately 11:42 a.m. Kangas was in possession of a handgun, which was seized as evidence.

This investigation remains active. No additional updates are anticipated.

The Bender family has requested privacy as they grieve their loss.

On April 27, 2026, at approximately 11:13 a.m., the Clark County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 911 call reporting an assault with a firearm near the intersection of NE Ward Road and NE Davis Road, Clark County, Washington.

Upon arrival, deputies located one individual who was deceased.

Details are limited at this time; however, one suspect is in custody, and there is no indication of an ongoing risk to the community.

The Clark County Major Crimes Unit is actively investigating this incident. No additional information is available for release at this time. Updates will be provided as they become available.