On a Friday morning, December 6, 2019, in Burlington, Washington, 23-year-old Douglas "Doug" James Gunter pulled into the Skagit Big Mini Mart on South Burlington Boulevard. He was in his black 1994 Honda Civic, intending to buy a Gatorade before meeting friends to play football. Before he could even get out of his car, a man approached the driver's side and began firing a pistol through the window.
Douglas, a member of the Swinomish Tribe, was struck by the gunfire.
The incident unfolded at approximately 11:24 a.m., when police were dispatched to the gas station for reports of a gunshot victim. Paramedics treated Douglas at the scene, but his injuries were too severe, and he later died. Investigators reviewed security footage which showed the shooter arriving in a maroon Ford Explorer. The suspect entered the mini-mart, walked around without purchasing anything, and then exited just as Douglas was pulling up to the gas pumps. Upon seeing Douglas's car, the suspect immediately drew a pistol and opened fire. After the shooting, the assailant ran around the back of the building, returned to his vehicle, and fled the scene.
Friends and family expressed shock and devastation, stating that Douglas, who was affectionately known as "Dougie Doug" on social media, was not involved in gangs. They believe he was a victim of a random act of violence, possibly targeted because of the color of his shirt. While he had faced challenges with addiction in the past and was seeking treatment, those close to him emphasized that he was a beloved individual who will be greatly missed by his community.
The Burlington Police Department identified the suspect as Christian Manuel Flores. The investigation revealed that prior to the shooting, Flores had allegedly threatened to kill an innocent person in a communication with his ex-girlfriend. Authorities believe fellow gang members were attempting to help Flores flee to Mexico. A warrant was issued for his arrest for Murder in the First Degree with a firearm enhancement. The Swinomish community held prayer services and a funeral for Douglas James Gunter in the days following his tragic and senseless death.
