Richland Police Department officers assigned to the Southeast Regional Internet Crimes Against Children (SER-ICAC) Task Force, along with the Street Crimes Unit, K-9 Unit, and Criminal Investigations Division, conducted a multi-agency warrant service operation near Argent Road and Road 103 in Pasco shortly before 6:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 21, 2026. During a targeted traffic stop of a vehicle operated by 47-year-old Pasco resident Christopher H. Derrick, detectives reported that Derrick produced a firearm from inside the vehicle. A Richland police detective discharged a duty weapon, striking Derrick. Emergency medical service personnel rendered immediate life-saving aid at the scene before transporting Derrick to Kadlec Regional Medical Center in Richland, where he subsequently succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased.
Independent Investigation and Administrative Status
The Tri-Cities Special Investigations Unit (SIU) assumed primary responsibility for the independent officer-involved shooting investigation. The Richland Police Department identified the involved officer as Detective Ukiah Petersen of the Street Crimes Unit and placed him on paid administrative leave in accordance with department policy. Federal court documentation unsealed on Wednesday indicated that Derrick had been indicted on federal charges involving the alleged receipt and possession of child sexual abuse material. An autopsy was performed by the Spokane County Coroner’s Office to establish formal forensic and post-mortem findings.
Tributes and Memorial Notices
News of the fatal encounter brought reflections across Pasco and the Tri-Cities region. Area residents acknowledged the loss of life and the impact of the incident on all involved. Formal memorial service announcements and private family arrangements remain pending through authorized representatives.
#derrick#christopher#obituary#death
