WALLA WALLA – Washington State Patrol (WSP) Trooper Dean Atkinson Jr. is returning home to continue his recovery from multiple gunshot wounds sustained on Sept. 22, 2022. 

Trooper Atkinson, a five-year veteran of the WSP, suffered gunshot wounds to his face and hand during the incident but found the fortitude to drive himself to a nearby hospital before being airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle for treatment.  

Trooper Atkinson’s road to recovery will now continue with his family, friends, and colleagues at his side in the community he serves.  

The outpour of community support, thoughts, and prayers for Trooper Atkinson and his family have been immensely appreciated.  

Inquiries regarding the independent investigation of the Sept. 22 incident should be forwarded to the Special Investigations Unit of the Walla Walla Police Department.