43-year-old man shot, killed after struggle in Whatcom County

BELLINGHAM -- A man shot and killed a 43-year-old accused trespasser during an argument and struggle in Everson on Friday, the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office said.

At about 4:15 p.m., 911 received a call from a man who said another man had been shot at his address.

Deputies went to the home in the 6300 block of Siper Road in Everson and found a 43-year-old man dead from a single gunshot wound to the chest, Undersheriff Jeff Parks said.

The dead man was identified as Jonathan Larson, a transient, who was previously accused of trespassing on the property.

Parks said a 34-year-old man who lives on the property armed himself with a rifle and confronted Larson, telling him to leave the property.

"Larson reportedly threatened the armed male and a struggle ensued, during which a shot was fired, striking Larson," Parks said.

The shooter was not arrested, but the case remains under investigation.