On the evening of March 25, 2016, a confrontation at a Spanaway, Washington, convenience store culminated in the death of 21-year-old Jakeel Rashon Mason, a Black male. The events unfolded at the Pacific Quick Shop, where the store's owner, Min Sik Kim, confronted a group of men, including Mason, who were loitering outside. After Kim went outside to ask the men to leave, Mason entered the store and attempted to steal a pack of cigarettes.
Surveillance footage from inside the store
captured the ensuing altercation. As Kim re-entered, he drew a handgun and held Mason at gunpoint. After holstering his weapon, Kim punched Mason, leading to a physical fight. The struggle continued for several moments until Mason managed to break free and attempted to run out of the store. As Mason fled towards the doorway, Kim stood up, drew his firearm again, and shot Mason twice in the back. Jakeel Rashon Mason collapsed in the doorway and died at the scene before medical help could arrive.
Following the incident, Min Sik Kim was not immediately arrested. However, after a review of the case, the Pierce County Prosecutor's Office charged the 30-year-old store owner with second-degree murder. In June 2017, Kim was convicted of the charge. At his sentencing, Kim expressed remorse, stating, "I'm here to take responsibility for my actions in taking Mason's life. I accept the consequences. I did not have the right to take his life." The Superior Court judge sentenced Min Sik Kim to just over eight years in prison for the shooting death of Jakeel Rashon Mason.
