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News Release

DA Determines Use Of Force By Corporal Luedke Was Justified (Photo) - 09/17/25

Investigation concludes officer’s use of force was lawful during July 20 pursuit

 

ST. HELENS, Ore. [Sep 17, 2025] — The Columbia County District Attorney's Office has completed its review of the July 20, 2025, use of lethal force involving Columbia County Sheriff’s Corporal Seann Luedke and Kyle David Graham. After a thorough investigation, the District Attorney’s Office determined Corporal Luedke’s use of deadly force was legally justified and that no criminal, administrative, or other punitive action will be taken.


The incident began on July 19, 2025, when the Washington State Police attempted to stop a speeding vehicle that fled into Oregon via the Lewis and Clark Bridge. The vehicle, registered to Mr. Graham, was later located in Rainier. On July 20, 2025, law enforcement received a report that Mr. Graham had returned to the vehicle and driven away, prompting a pursuit by multiple local and county agencies.


During the pursuit, Mr. Graham drove recklessly through the Deer Island Store parking lot and onto Canaan Road, where he lost control and left the roadway. As Corporal Luedke approached the stopped vehicle, Mr. Graham fired a shot in his direction. Corporal Luedke returned fire. Mr. Graham did not survive his injuries.

 

A subsequent investigation by the Oregon State Police and other agencies included scene reconstruction, forensic testing, and witness interviews, among other steps. Evidence showed Mr. Graham possessed a stolen firearm and, as a convicted felon, was prohibited from possessing firearms. Investigators concluded Corporal Luedke reasonably believed Mr. Graham was attempting to use unlawful deadly physical force against him.


“Incidents like this are difficult for the entire community and all involved,” said District Attorney Joshua Pond. “After a comprehensive and detailed investigation, the evidence is clear that Corporal Luedke’s actions were lawful. I want to thank the many investigators who approached this case with diligent care and professionalism.”


With the completion of this review, the District Attorney’s Office considers the matter closed.


###

Attached Media Files: NR- Use of Force by Corporal Luedke Was Justified.pdf,

DA Determines Use Of Force By Corporal Luedke Was Justified (Photo) - 09/17/25

Investigation concludes officer’s use of force was lawful during July 20 pursuit

 

ST. HELENS, Ore. [Sep 17, 2025] — The Columbia County District Attorney's Office has completed its review of the July 20, 2025, use of lethal force involving Columbia County Sheriff’s Corporal Seann Luedke and Kyle David Graham. After a thorough investigation, the District Attorney’s Office determined Corporal Luedke’s use of deadly force was legally justified and that no criminal, administrative, or other punitive action will be taken.


The incident began on July 19, 2025, when the Washington State Police attempted to stop a speeding vehicle that fled into Oregon via the Lewis and Clark Bridge. The vehicle, registered to Mr. Graham, was later located in Rainier. On July 20, 2025, law enforcement received a report that Mr. Graham had returned to the vehicle and driven away, prompting a pursuit by multiple local and county agencies.


During the pursuit, Mr. Graham drove recklessly through the Deer Island Store parking lot and onto Canaan Road, where he lost control and left the roadway. As Corporal Luedke approached the stopped vehicle, Mr. Graham fired a shot in his direction. Corporal Luedke returned fire. Mr. Graham did not survive his injuries.

 

A subsequent investigation by the Oregon State Police and other agencies included scene reconstruction, forensic testing, and witness interviews, among other steps. Evidence showed Mr. Graham possessed a stolen firearm and, as a convicted felon, was prohibited from possessing firearms. Investigators concluded Corporal Luedke reasonably believed Mr. Graham was attempting to use unlawful deadly physical force against him.


“Incidents like this are difficult for the entire community and all involved,” said District Attorney Joshua Pond. “After a comprehensive and detailed investigation, the evidence is clear that Corporal Luedke’s actions were lawful. I want to thank the many investigators who approached this case with diligent care and professionalism.”


With the completion of this review, the District Attorney’s Office considers the matter closed.


###

Attached Media Files: NR- Use of Force by Corporal Luedke Was Justified.pdf,