Prosecutors seek new trial date for suspect in WSP trooper shooting
By Dan Thesman on Tuesday, May 28th, 2024 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
WALLA WALLA – Brandon Dennis O’Neel, 38, who is accused of shooting Washington State Patrol Trooper Dean Atkinson Jr. back in September 2022 in Walla Walla, will be back in court this afternoon (Tuesday) to get a new trial date.
Walla Walla County Prosecuting Attorney Gabe Acosta said O’Neel’s competency has been restored by Eastern State Hospital.
O’Neel is charged with first-degree attempted murder – armed with firearm, first-degree assault – armed with firearm, attempting to elude a pursuing police vehicle – armed with firearm, threats to bomb or injury property, and harassment.
If this case goes to trial, Acosta said the state anticipates the injured trooper will testify.
On Sept. 22, 2022, O’Neel allegedly ambushed Atkinson and shot the trooper multiple times on the 1300 block of West Poplar Street in Walla Walla. O’Neel fled the scene and was later captured that evening.
After sustaining multiple gunshot wounds, Atkinson drove himself to Providence St. Mary Medical Center and was then airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle where he underwent several surgeries before returning home.
Following the shooting, an investigation revealed O’Neel shot Atkinson shortly after O’Neel returned to his apartment to find he was unable to make entry. Earlier that day, O’Neel had been served an eviction notice at his apartment. While the notice was being served, law enforcement located a sign reading “Bomb” inside the residence.
The Washington State Patrol Bomb Squad responded, and no bomb was found. O’Neel was not at home at the time.
