Yakima, Washington – Leland James Vijarro, a 26-year-old from Toppenish, Washington, has pled guilty to assault and firearm charges in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Washington. The charges stem from an incident where Vijarro fired at federal officers.
Court documents reveal that on February 10, 2024, law enforcement responded to reports of two vehicles chasing each other in Toppenish while occupants exchanged gunfire. Upon stopping one vehicle, Vijarro fled with a .45 caliber pistol and ammunition into a nearby home.
Law enforcement established a perimeter around the residence. Later that evening, Vijarro emerged into the backyard and fired three shots at officers before taking a shooting stance atop a pallet and firing two additional shots. Two Yakima County Sheriff’s Office vehicles were struck by bullets during this encounter.
Vijarro eventually surrendered after barricading himself in a neighboring home. The events unfolded on the Yakama Nation Indian Reservation; however, Vijarro is not an enrolled member of the tribe.
During his change-of-plea hearing, Vijarro admitted to intentionally firing at law enforcement officers who had surrounded him.
“Firing at law enforcement officers is an intolerable act of violence that puts lives at risk and undermines public safety,” said Acting United States Attorney Rich Barker. He commended the professionalism and restraint shown by officers involved in the incident.
W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office stated: “During Police Week, we are especially reminded of how law enforcement place themselves daily in harm’s way to protect us.” He emphasized gratitude for no injuries resulting from Vijarro's actions despite their dangerous nature.
United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke accepted Vijarro’s plea with sentencing scheduled for August 11, 2025. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bree R. Black Horse.