In the early evening of December 2, 2024, Calvin "Bud" Leland George Jr., a 42-year-old Native American man and an enrolled member of the Yakama Nation, was shot and killed outside of his home on Mamachat Lane in Wapato, Washington. The Yakima County Coroner's Office later confirmed that the cause of death was a gunshot wound to the chest. Law enforcement discovered him in the front yard of the residence, where he succumbed to his injuries.
His death marked the 25th homicide in Yakima County that year.
Authorities are investigating the incident as a drive-by shooting. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Yakama Nation Police Department are jointly handling the case. While drive-by shootings in the Yakima Valley have often been linked to gang activity, investigators have not yet determined if this was the motive in George's death. As of now, no suspects have been publicly identified, and no arrests have been made in connection with the homicide.
In the course of their investigation, law enforcement sought information from the public regarding a vehicle of interest, a maroon 2008 Toyota Scion with a temporary license plate, which was seen near the scene of the crime. This vehicle has since been recovered by investigators. The investigation into the death of Calvin George Jr. remains ongoing, and authorities have encouraged anyone with information to come forward.
