More details have been released about Saturday’s incident, which led to murder charges

CUSTER, Wash. – The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office released the following statement regarding the case: arrest and subsequent murder and assault charges against the Custer man.

On Saturday, January 11, 2025, at approximately 10:27 p.m., the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported physical domestic incident at 8300 Valley View Road in Custer. While en route, dispatchers received another report of “shots fired” at the residence, prompting a multi-agency response.

Upon arrival, officers entered the residence and discovered a deceased man, later identified as 52-year-old (victim 1 – name redacted for the privacy of the victim and the victim’s family)with multiple gunshot wounds. The initial investigation revealed that a verbal argument escalated between Valentin Rivera, 43, and Valentin Rivera, 43. (victim 1)who, according to the findings, were under the influence of alcohol. Witnesses say Rivera tried to pull over (victim 1) he lost driving due to his intoxicated condition, which led to a fight in which Rivera allegedly fired (victim 1).

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Rivera was transported to PeaceHealth St. Medical Center. Joseph for examination. He was examined by doctors and sent to prison.

The investigation also revealed probable cause for Rivera’s arrest for domestic violence assault against two additional victims during the fight. Medical staff provided assistance to the injured on site, and one was transported to hospital for further treatment.

Rivera was arrested and booked into the Whatcom County Jail on charges of:

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• Second degree murder for death (victim 1)
• Assault 2nd Degree – DV for assault (victim 2)
• 4th degree assault – DV for assault (victim 3)

This is an active investigation.

– Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (January 13, 2025)