Samuel Mittler Death News – Authorities in Okanogan County have released the identity of a man who died during a law enforcement operation near Tonasket earlier this month. The Okanogan County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the incident occurred on December 19 and remains under active investigation by an independent agency.
According to officials, the North Central Washington Special Investigations Unit is leading the investigation and continues to review evidence collected at the scene. This unit is responsible for examining officer-involved incidents to ensure transparency and accountability. Investigators are carefully analyzing all available information as part of the review process.
Law enforcement officials stated that the incident took place during the early morning hours while officers were attempting to carry out a nationwide arrest warrant. Multiple agencies were involved in the operation, including members of a federal task force and state law enforcement personnel. The arrest attempt occurred at a residence located several miles outside the city of Tonasket in a rural area of Okanogan County.
Authorities explained that the man sought by law enforcement was facing multiple felony charges, including two counts related to assault and an additional charge involving intimidation of a public official. These charges led to the issuance of a warrant that prompted the coordinated effort to take him into custody.
During the attempt to execute the warrant, an encounter occurred between the suspect and law enforcement officers. Officials reported that the man was armed at the time of the confrontation. During this encounter, officers discharged their weapons, and the man was struck. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Snohomish County Medical Examiner’s Office later conducted an autopsy and formally identified the deceased as 40-year-old Samuel Mittler, who was a resident of Tonasket. Authorities stated that the medical examination was completed in accordance with standard procedures for deaths involving law enforcement action.
The sheriff’s office emphasized that, as required by state law, a family liaison has been assigned to support Mittler’s relatives. This liaison is responsible for maintaining communication with the family and ensuring they receive timely updates about the investigation as it progresses. Officials noted that keeping families informed is a critical part of the process in cases of this nature.
Investigators have also carried out multiple search warrants related to the incident. These efforts are aimed at collecting physical evidence that may help clarify the sequence of events leading up to the fatal encounter. Law enforcement agencies involved in the operation are cooperating fully with the independent investigators.
In addition, officials confirmed that investigators are in the process of obtaining and reviewing body-worn camera footage from officers who were present at the scene. Reviewing video evidence is considered an important step in understanding how the incident unfolded and in ensuring that all actions are thoroughly examined.
The sheriff’s office reiterated that the investigation remains ongoing and that no final conclusions have been reached at this time. Officials cautioned that details may change as evidence continues to be reviewed and analyzed. They also emphasized that updates will be shared with the public when new information becomes available and is appropriate for release.
Community members have expressed concern and interest in understanding the circumstances surrounding the incident. Law enforcement officials have asked for patience as investigators complete their work, noting that thorough and independent reviews take time to ensure accuracy and fairness.
The North Central Washington Special Investigations Unit will continue to oversee the case and is expected to provide further updates once key aspects of the investigation are finalized. Until then, authorities say their focus remains on conducting a careful, transparent review while keeping the public informed through official channels.
