One man dead, another arrested following altercation at Custer residence over the weekend
Whatcom County authorities arrested a man in Custer on Saturday as part of a homicide investigation.
Deputies from the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of domestic violence in the 8300 block of Valley View Road in Custer around 10:30 p.m. Saturday. As deputies were en route to the scene they received a report of shots being fired at the residence, Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Deb Slater said in a news release.
When deputies arrived they discovered a deceased man later identified as Angel Rodriguez, 52, who had multiple gunshot wounds. Deputies learned there had been an argument between Rodriguez and a 43-year-old man who is the lead suspect.
Authorities believe both men were intoxicated, and the suspect tried to stop Rodriguez from driving while intoxicated. The argument escalated, leading to a physical altercation, during which the suspect allegedly shot Rodriguez.
Deputies established probable cause to arrest the suspect for assault of two other people who were present during the altercation. One of the assault victims was taken to St. Joseph Medical Center for treatment.
The suspect has been arrested on suspicion of second-degree murder as well as second-degree and fourth-degree domestic violence. He is in custody at the Whatcom County Jail.
This story was originally published January 13, 2025 at 12:00 PM.
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