Neighbors Fight Back as Suspect Shoots Deputies

Summary

When a routine disturbing the peace call in Maple Falls, Washington escalated on February 10th, 2022, to shots fired, it wasn't just law enforcement who responded, but also armed neighbors. The 60-year-old resident, Joel Burke Young, had been firing a shotgun and making threats, including telling neighbors, "if we call the cops he was going to kill us." When deputies Ryan Rathbun and Jason Thompson arrived, Young initially refused to comply, escalating the situation. The video is compelling because it captures raw footage and firsthand accounts, showing how the neighbors, feeling their lives were at risk, took action. As the standoff intensified, Young fired through the front door, hitting both deputies with birdshot in the face. Remarkably, these injured deputies managed to drive themselves to the fire hall for aid. Civilians then assisted in securing the scene until tactical units arrived, eventually apprehending a seemingly unfazed Young. The bravery of the neighbors who returned fire to protect the wounded deputies is a central, powerful element of this story, and the full video is absolutely worth watching to understand the full scope of this harrowing event. Both deputies made full recoveries and were awarded the state Medal of Honor. Joel Burke Young faces multiple felony charges and is awaiting trial.