Dramatic Body Cam Footage Released in Clark County Deputy-Involved Shooting

CAMAS, WA — In a recent development that has captured the attention of the Camas community and beyond, the Clark County Sheriff's Office released critical body-worn camera footage from a deputy-involved shooting that occurred on the night of November 13, 2024. The incident, which resulted in Patrick Wetzel being shot, has sparked discussions about law enforcement protocols and community safety.

WARNING - VIDEO CONTAINS GRAPHIC CONTENT

Incident Overview: Patrick Wetzel, a 41-year-old resident of Camas, was involved in a tense confrontation with law enforcement officers after neighbors reported hearing gunshots around 10 p.m. near his residence. The situation escalated over the next half-hour, with continued reports of gunfire. Law enforcement, including deputies from Clark County and officers from Camas, Vancouver, and Washougal police departments, responded to the scene. Using a drone, officers identified Wetzel outside his home around 10:30 p.m. Due to a no-contact order prohibiting him from being at the residence or possessing firearms, the presence of Wetzel at the location prompted an immediate law enforcement response. Armored vehicles were deployed, and at approximately 11:03 p.m., after attempts to negotiate, a deputy shot Wetzel.

Medical and Legal Proceedings: Wetzel was promptly taken to PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center, where he was treated for his injuries and later discharged. Following his release from the hospital, he was booked into Clark County Jail on multiple charges, including first-degree burglary, second-degree unlawful possession of a firearm, reckless endangerment, aiming/discharging a firearm, and four counts of domestic violence no-contact order violation.

Investigations and Body Cam Footage: The shooting is currently under investigation by the Southwest Washington Independent Investigation Team, led by the Washington State Patrol. Meanwhile, the Clark County Sheriff's Office has initiated an administrative review of the incident. The released body cam footage, available on the sheriff's official website, offers a visual account of the events as understood by the deputies involved. Viewers are cautioned, as the video contains graphic content.

Community and Law Enforcement Response: The release of the footage has been met with mixed reactions from the community. Some residents express concern over the use of force and the circumstances leading to the shooting, while others focus on the broader issues of domestic violence and firearm possession violations.

What Are Your Thoughts?

How do you perceive the actions of law enforcement in this incident based on the body cam footage?

What measures can be taken to prevent such incidents in the future?

How should communities balance enforcement of no-contact orders with the potential for violent outcomes?

This incident underscores the complexities of law enforcement responses to domestic disturbances and the critical role of body-worn cameras in providing transparency. As the investigations continue, the community awaits further details and the implications of this tragic event.