On a tragic day in Seattle, Washington, a 16-year-old Black/African American male named Jahaz Phillips lost his life in a shocking act of violence. On the night of March 21, 2024, what was initially reported as a pedestrian being struck by a vehicle on northbound Interstate 5 turned into a homicide investigation. First responders discovered the young man's body lying in a lane of traffic just north of N 85th Street.
It was soon determined by the Washington State Patrol that Jahaz had not been hit by a car, but had been shot.
The devastating discovery was compounded just ten hours later when the body of Jahaz's best friend, 16-year-old Myion Coleman, was found in a ditch off an on-ramp to the interstate, a short distance from where Jahaz was found. He too had been fatally shot. Authorities quickly connected the two deaths, believing the inseparable friends were victims of the same horrifying event. The community was left reeling from the loss of two young lives, as investigators worked to piece together the timeline of their final hours and determine if they were killed along the interstate or if their bodies were left there after the fact.
Jahaz was remembered by those who knew him as a student at Nathan Hale High School with a contagious, bright smile that could light up any room. He was known for his positive demeanor, connecting well with teachers and counselors. Despite having lost his mother in 2020, he maintained an optimistic outlook on life. He had a passion for basketball, video games, movies, and cooking.
The investigation into the double homicide is ongoing, and as of late March 2025, no arrests had been made. Washington State Patrol detectives continue to seek information from the public to find those responsible for the deaths of Jahaz Phillips and Myion Coleman. Investigators have indicated they are monitoring social media and have some leads, but no suspects have been publicly identified, leaving a community and two families searching for answers and justice.
