Abdul Qasim Ray Zahir, 38, a member of the Tulalip Tribes, entered a guilty plea for voluntary manslaughter and use of a firearm in a crime of violence yesterday, according to an announcement made by US Attorney Tessa M. Gorman.
The charges stem from a fatal incident on tribal land, wherein Zahir acknowledged shooting a friend during an argument over noise from auto work. Per the plea agreement, Zahir's sentence could range from a minimum of ten years to a maximum of 18 years in federal prison. U.S. District Judge Ricardo S. Martinez is expected to preside over the sentencing on November 1, 2024, as reported by the Department of Justice.
The shooting occurred on May 28, 2022, in Zahir's garage. The confrontation escalated when the victim and Zahir's cousin argued over the noise levels, leading Zahir to draw a firearm and fatally shoot the victim, the plea agreement details. Concurrently, Zahir faces charges in King County Superior Court for attempted robbery, illegal possession of a firearm, and possession of a stolen vehicle. These charges will result in a concurrent sentence with the federal punishment, aligning with the state prosecutor's recommendations.
Voluntary manslaughter carries a maximum of 15 years in prison. However, the firearm charge ensures a mandatory minimum of ten years, potentially extending to life in prisonment. Judge Martinez will determine the final sentence, considering the established guidelines and statutory factors. Despite the defense and prosecution's sentencing suggestions, Martinez has the authority to impose any lawful sentence.
FBI and the Tulalip Police Department conducted the investigation leading to Zahir's charges. Assistant United States Attorney J. Tate London, who acts as a Tribal Liaison for the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Western District of Washington, will prosecute the case.
