In the quiet community of Bremerton, Washington, a horrific tragedy unfolded on January 27, 2017, claiming the life of 16-year-old Hunter Evan Schaap, a White male. On that fateful night, Hunter was at home with his stepmother, Christale Careaga, 37, and his stepbrother, Johnathon Higgins, 16. The night took a violent turn when intruders entered their home.
Amid the chaos, Hunter made a desperate 911 call, pleading for help and stating that his family had been shot.
When first responders arrived at the scene, they were met with a house engulfed in flames. The intensity of the fire initially prevented them from entering. Once the blaze was under control, they discovered the bodies of Hunter, Christale, and Johnathon inside. The investigation later revealed that all three victims had been shot before the fire was intentionally set. Two days later, the body of Hunter's stepfather, John Careaga, 43, was found inside his burned truck in a remote area in Mason County.
For years, the case remained a painful mystery for the community and Hunter's surviving family. Investigators worked tirelessly, and the case was eventually linked to members and associates of the Bandidos Motorcycle Club. The motive for the quadruple homicide was believed to be a financial dispute related to drugs. In June 2022, a significant breakthrough occurred with the arrest of three men: Danie Kelly Jr., Robert Watson, and his brother Johnny Watson.
The three suspects were charged with multiple felonies, including aggravated first-degree murder, arson, and burglary. After a lengthy trial, in April 2024, a jury found all three men guilty on numerous charges. They were each subsequently sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole, bringing a measure of justice to the family and community shattered by the violent loss of four lives, including that of a brave teenager who tried to save his family.
