HOODSPORT, Wash. — The Mason County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) has arrested a man they say killed two people during a domestic violence incident in Hoodsport.
Deputies arrested 60-year-old Robert T. Child at a gas station outside Shelton following a tip to investigators.
Child is accused of shooting and killing 46-year-old Anna Child and 46-year-old Jason Hilde inside a Hoodsport home.
“That was my best friend,” Erica Christiansen told KIRO 7 of one of his alleged victims. “I can’t believe she’s gone.”
The arrest marked the end of a frantic search that lasted nearly 24 hours.
“It’s a huge relief, not only for the safety of our community but the safety of our officers and for the families,” Sheriff Ryan Spurling of Mason County said.
Friends and family told KIRO 7 that Anna Child and Hilde worked together. They also said Anna and Robert Child were married, though they had recently separated.
A person who worked with Anna and Hilde at the Shelton Fred Meyer told KIRO 7 that Robert recently came into the store and made a scene, prompting Anna to seek out a restraining order.
She claims Robert Child left the state and the order was never served.
“Unfortunately, our worst nightmares came true,” she said.
“We will be looking into that as part of the investigation,” said Mason County Sheriff Ryan Spurling.
Spurling said that Child was their suspect from the get-go.
Anna Child’s family said the arrest means the immediate danger is gone, and they now have the chance to process their grief and remember their loved one’s life.
“Anna was such a joy and an amazing human, especially in this community,” said Bryce Gardella, her brother. “She will be missed.”
In a message, Hilde’s ex-wife described him as a loving father and son as well as a loyal friend.
Spurling said investigators are still working to piece together all the evidence in the case. There is no word yet on charges.