Law enforcement responds to woman firing weapon at neighbor
By Dan Thesman on Sunday, June 18th, 2023 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
News release from College Place Police Department
COLLEGE PLACE – The College Place Police Department received reports of a woman with health issues firing a weapon at a neighbor at 6:31 p.m. Sunday. Officers from the College Place Police Department were backed by the Walla Walla County Sheriff’s Office and the Walla Walla Police Department who responded to the residence located on SW Eighth Street in College Place.
Upon arrival, officers confronted the woman who was located at the entrance of her front door holding a pistol. Officers were notified the woman may be confused due to a brain illness. Officers began to talk with the woman and de-escalate the situation. The woman was taken into custody without incident and treated by medics from the College Place Fire Department. Officers secured a .380 caliber pistol believed to be used in the shooting.
Prior to the shooting, a caretaker was looking after the 65-year-old College Place resident who was struggling with health issues. The woman was resting in bed when the caretaker checked on her. It was reported the caretaker entered the bedroom when the woman shot at the caretaker twice. The
caretaker ran to the neighbor’s home to escape and believes she heard to two more shots fired.
A family member of the suspect, reports she has legally owned the firearm since 2015 for personal
protection. The woman was identified as Mary Shropshire, who was admitted to Providence St. Mary Medical Center for observation. The CPPD is currently conducting a criminal investigation. Potential charges include discharging a firearm which is a gross misdemeanor.
Chief Troy Tomaras said he is grateful nobody was injured and gives credit to the quick response and
teamwork of officers from the College Place Police Department, the Walla Walla County Sheriff’s Office
and the Walla Walla Police Department. Tomaras also credits dispatch (WESCOM) for relaying critical
information to responding officers for their situational awareness.
