Eric Jerome Lee Sentell Perkins, 44, has been charged with five counts of first-degree assault for a shooting spree on I-5 on Sept. 2, 2024.
The King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office alleges that Perkins fired at multiple vehicles while driving northbound, injuring several people, including a woman critically shot in the neck.
As we previously reported, Perkins was arrested in Pierce County and later confessed to the shootings.
Prosecutors have requested that bail remain at $1 million, citing the severity of the attacks, his criminal history, and the risk to public safety.
According to charging documents, Perkins’ actions caused chaos over a stretch of three counties as vehicles continued to report damage from gunfire.
The unprovoked nature of the attack, combined with Perkins’ history of prior convictions, raised concerns about future public safety risks.
Charging documents say that Perkins indicated he thought he was being followed while driving, and people in cars were trying to run him off the road. He indicated firing at vehicles four or five times. He further indicated he had driven from Tacoma to Everett and was not sure if he had shot anyone, but was shooting to get the people who were following him to “back off” and stop following him. Perkins was transported ot Tacoma General Hospital for a medical evaluation.
Perkins remains in custody as he awaits trial in King County Superior Court.
Key Crimes Committed by Perkins:
- Shooting spree on I-5: On Monday, Sept. 2, 2024, Perkins allegedly fired a handgun at multiple vehicles while driving a white 2001 Volvo S60 northbound on I-5, endangering lives over a stretch of three counties. The attack caused chaos, with bullets striking at least two cars.
- Victim injuries: One of the victims, a woman seated in a rear passenger seat, was critically injured after a bullet struck her in the neck. Another victim’s vehicle window shattered, sending glass flying and injuring his wife.
- Targeting random vehicles: The shooting appeared indiscriminate, with Perkins allegedly aiming at vehicles without provocation, escalating fears for public safety.
- Multiple reports from drivers: In addition to the critically injured victim, other motorists later discovered bullet holes and damage to their vehicles after hearing gunshots.
- Five counts of first-degree assault: Perkins faces five counts of first-degree assault for the life-threatening injuries caused during the attacks. His charges reflect the severity of the harm inflicted on multiple victims.
- Arrest and confession: After his arrest in Pierce County, Perkins confessed to the shooting spree. Authorities were able to apprehend him thanks to coordinated efforts across multiple law enforcement agencies.
- History of prior convictions: Perkins has prior criminal convictions in California, including charges related to burglary and possession of stolen property, contributing to the prosecution’s argument for high bail.
- Bail set at $1 million: Prosecutors have requested that Perkins be held on $1 million bail, emphasizing the dangerous nature of the attacks and the significant threat posed to the public.
