An 80-year-old grandmother named Ruth Dalton died during a carjacking in Washington state while trying to protect two dogs. The suspect, identified as Jahmed K. Haynes, was arrested with a bloody knife and the keys to Dalton’s car. Dalton was a well-loved dog walker, and her granddaughter described her as kind and fiercely protective.
Witnesses tried to help Dalton during the carjacking, but the suspect ultimately ran over her and fatally wounded her. An investigation revealed that Dalton was in the driver’s seat when the suspect entered the car. Fingerprint evidence on Dalton’s cell phone led police to believe Haynes was the suspect.
Later, at a park, witnesses reported seeing someone hurting a dog, which was later found stabbed to death with a collar bearing Dalton’s name. Haynes now faces charges of first-degree murder and animal cruelty.
Dalton’s family, friends, and community are mourning her loss, with many remembering her as a vibrant and caring individual. The motive for the killings is still unclear, although police mentioned that Haynes has a history of mental health issues and multiple prior criminal convictions.
The suspect remains in jail with no bond, and it is unknown when he will appear in court or if he has legal representation. Anyone with information about the case is encouraged to contact the Seattle Police Department or Crime Stoppers.
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