The Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office announced a breakthrough in the August 19, 2022, burglary-related murder case that left 36-year-old Irah Sok dead. The suspects, 28-year-old Kevin Thissel and 23-year-old Chris Johnson of Pierce County, are both in custody on federal charges. The suspects are expected to be charged in state court with premeditated murder, first-degree murder, first-degree kidnapping, first-degree burglary, first-degree robbery, first-degree theft, and unlawful possession of a firearm.
Detectives are continuing their investigation and are working to identify additional suspects.
“The breakthrough in this case shows the persistence and dedication of our detective in solving crimes in our community and brings us one step closer to justice for Irah and her family,” said Sheriff Susanna Johnson. “This senseless act of violence has deeply impacted our community and left a young child without his mother. This investigation was extremely complex and we would not be here today without the hard work and dedication of Lead Detective Kendra Conley. We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the Kent Police Department, FBI, Snohomish County District Attorney’s Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their invaluable assistance in this investigation.”
On August 19, 2022, at approximately 3 a.m., officers responded to a shooting in the 2600 block of 96th Street SE. Upon arrival, officers found the victim, 36-year-old Irah Sok, who had been shot and pronounced dead at the scene.
During the investigation, investigators learned that three armed suspects kicked in the front door and forcibly entered the home. The suspects went to the second floor of the home and entered the master bedroom. One of the suspects shot the 36-year-old victim as she lay in bed next to her 7-year-old child. The victim’s husband was thrown to the ground by the suspects and bound with zip ties.
The three suspects searched the victim’s belongings and stole luxury items worth several thousand dollars.
After the suspects fled, the victim’s husband ran out of the apartment and contacted a neighbor, who called 911. The investigation lasted several months until investigators, with the assistance of Kent Police, made a breakthrough in the case in late 2022.
The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to call the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Tip Line at 425-388-3845.
