In Kent, Washington, on the evening of April 7, 2026, 26-year-old Denzel Robert Lee Pressley was tragically killed in a double homicide. Pressley, along with 25-year-old Doneu Leemale Gore, was found with multiple gunshot wounds in the backyard of a residence on the East Hill. Emergency services were called to the scene after reports of gunshots, but despite life-saving efforts, both men succumbed to their injuries.
The King County Medical Examiner's Office later confirmed that Pressley died from multiple gunshot wounds and ruled his death a homicide.
The investigation into the shooting led Kent Police to arrest 34-year-old DeAngelo Cyrus Lynch the following day. Prosecutors have charged Lynch with two counts of first-degree murder in connection with the deaths of Pressley and Gore. According to charging documents, the shooting occurred at a gathering at the residence. An argument reportedly broke out when the victims were asked to leave. Surveillance footage from a neighboring property allegedly captured Lynch advancing on the two men in the backyard and firing multiple shots.
Prosecutors have described the shooting as "unprovoked." One of the victims was reportedly shot at such close range that gunpowder particles were found in the wound. Following the shooting, Lynch also allegedly threatened a female roommate with a gun, leading to an additional charge of second-degree domestic violence assault. During police interviews, Lynch denied being in the backyard at the time of the shooting, even when confronted with the video evidence.
DeAngelo Cyrus Lynch, who had recently moved to Washington from Virginia, has a prior criminal record that includes charges of assault and failing to appear in court. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges. A judge set his bail at $5 million, and he remains in custody at the King County Correctional Facility. His arraignment was scheduled for April 16 at the Maleng Regional Justice Center in Kent.
