Homicide investigation underway after man found deceased in vehicle

By Dan Thesman on Sunday, October 30th, 2022 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

KENNEWICK – The Kennewick Police Department has launched a homicide investigation after officers responded to the 1100 block of West Fifth Avenue at 9:15 p.m. Saturday to a report of gunfire. When officers arrived to the area, they located a two-vehicle collision with one deceased male inside one of the vehicles.

Officers said the vehicle had been struck by gunfire. Detectives responded and later determined that the male also appeared to have been hit by gunfire.

On Monday, the victim was identified as Julian Chavez, 19. Benton County Coroner William Leach said his last known address was in the East Kennewick/Finley area. An autopsy is scheduled for Tuesday in Spokane.

If anyone has information about this incident, please call the non-emergency number at 509-628-0333. Anonymous tips can also be provided online at www.kpdtips.com.