Kent Police: Arrest made in deadly carjacking



KENT, Wash. -- Kent Police have made an arrest in connection to the carjacking and shooting death of 38-year-old Jered Sperling.

The suspect has been identified as a 23-year-old Kent resident, according to the Kent Police Department. His name has not been released because he has not been formally charged yet.


Kent investigators also have identified the other person of interest, but police said he's no longer a suspect.

“We want to thank every person who called in tips,” said Detective Robinson. “This is a very tragic case that has rocked everyone to the core. Our deepest condolences remain with the family and friends of Jered Sperling.”


Sperling, 38, was found shot to death at an apartment complex in Kent after his truck was stolen with him inside.  The carjacking happened just after 8 p.m. Monday at the East Hill Storage Facility, 10625 SE 240th St.

A tenant at the storage facility contacted Sperling's wife and said he jumped in the back of the truck to try to stop it from being stolen.

Jered's family started a GoFundMe to help his family pay for funeral costs and other expenses.  They also released the following statement Tuesday:


"Jered was a transplant from California who fell in love with the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. He only wanted the best for each and every person. He worked tirelessly to make a difference in this neighborhood and took great pride in his job and life. He was a loving, happy and helping husband, brother, son and friend. We ask at this time that you take a moment to love those close to you. We will be cherishing our Jered and the passionate, beautiful man he was. Please respect our family's privacy as we grieve."