James Robert Smith was 26 and a member of the Muckleshoot tribe when he was shot after a dispute over a set of tools in Auburn, Washington. On the evening of July 18, 2016, Smith was working on bicycles with a friend near Fenster Park when Travis Pendley, who had never met him before that day, accused him of having Pendley’s tools. The argument turned violent and Pendley, armed with a stolen shotgun, fired at Smith, striking his torso. Smith died the next day, July 19, 2016.

Pendley fled but was later arrested. He claimed self-defense, saying Smith had struck him in the face and was advancing toward him. Pendley was charged with second-degree murder and firearm theft; he pleaded guilty in February 2018 and received a 20-year prison sentence on April 27, 2018. Smith’s family described him at sentencing as vibrant, loving, and passionate about sports.

If anyone was in or around Fenster Park that evening or has information about the dispute over the tools, the community would welcome any leads.