In the quiet community of Olalla, Washington, a horrific discovery shattered the peace on August 18, 2022. Steven P. Shulz, a 51-year-old White male, and his wife, Mina Shulz, also 51, were found deceased on their property in what authorities would later describe as a gruesome scene. The couple's daughter made the initial, heartbreaking discovery when she went to check on her parents.
She found forced entry into their home and saw blood inside, prompting her to call 911.
When Kitsap County sheriff's deputies arrived at the Shady Glen Avenue Southeast home, they uncovered the true extent of the tragedy. The bodies of Steven and Mina Shulz were located in a garbage can on their property. It was determined that both had died from homicidal violence, specifically from gunshot wounds. Investigators noted signs of a burglary, with several items missing from the home, including a handgun and Mina's wallet. The couple, who were the owners of E2W Brewing, were just weeks away from opening their own brewery.
The investigation quickly led to a suspect, Shaun D. Rose, a 40-year-old man who had been living in an RV on a neighboring property. Tips from the public were crucial in identifying and locating Rose. After a manhunt that involved multiple law enforcement agencies, Rose was arrested on August 21, 2022, at a gas station in Tacoma following a police chase. During the pursuit, Rose drove erratically, abandoned one stolen vehicle, and stole another before he was apprehended. At the time of his arrest, investigators found him in possession of the victims' credit cards and identification. Evidence, including blood-stained clothing, was also discovered in his RV.
Shaun D. Rose, who had a history of criminal activity, was charged with two counts of first-degree murder. He initially pleaded not guilty but later changed his plea to guilty. The prosecution described the murders as a burglary that was interrupted, with Rose choosing to kill the couple rather than flee. In March 2023, Rose was sentenced to 66 years and 2 months in prison for the murders of Steven and Mina Shulz. During the sentencing, the defense attributed Rose's actions to a fentanyl epidemic. The couple's daughter spoke at the hearing, expressing the profound loss and trauma she and her family endured.
