Two Central Washington University students dead in accidental shooting, suicide

ELLENSBURG, Wash. (AP) — Two Central Washington University students have died in what police say was an accidental shooting followed by a suicide.

Ellensburg Police spokesman Capt. Dan Hansberry said Friday that officers responded at about 8:50 p.m. Thursday to a report of two gunshot victims at a house in Ellensburg.

He says initial investigation shows a 21-year-old man accidentally fatally shot a 22-year-old man. Hansberry says the 21-year-old student then immediately shot himself. It wasn't clear what led up to the shooting. Hansberry says the two men were the only ones involved in the incident.

Hansberry says the men were friends who were enrolled in Central Washington University through military Reserve Officers' Training Corps programs. Their names haven't been released.

Hansberry said there were three people home at the time of the incident. All three students were good friends, he said.

Central Washington University President James Gaudino offered condolences and support services to students in an email Friday.

"The individuals at the residence were all friends and there is no indication at this time of foul play being involved," police said. "Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims’ families and friends during this difficult time."