A 26-year-old British man has been killed in Washington state, prompting a murder investigation by local authorities. Jamie Thomas Stephen Lomas, originally from Manchester, died from multiple gunshot wounds following a domestic disturbance at a residence near Lake Youngs, a reservoir outside Kent, Washington. The King County Sheriff's Office confirmed the incident occurred around midday on Saturday, August 22.
Lomas's family described him as a "loving family man" who was "tragically murdered in America." They have launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for the repatriation of his body to the UK and to cover funeral costs, citing that the expenses are beyond their immediate means.
"He will be missed every single day. There are no words to describe the pain our family is feeling right now," stated the family on the fundraising page, which has reported over £7,200 raised towards a £10,000 goal from 191 donations.
The King County Sheriff's Office stated that deputies responded to a domestic disturbance call at a residence on the 23000 block of 156 Ave SE. Upon arrival, deputies secured the scene. The King County Medical Examiner's Office has ruled Lomas's death a homicide. No arrests have been made, and the investigation is ongoing, led by the major crimes detectives.
A spokesperson for the UK Foreign Office confirmed that they are providing support to Lomas's family and are in contact with local authorities.
