A man named Jahmed Kamal Haynes, aged 48, has been charged with first-degree murder, second-degree assault, and first-degree animal cruelty for the brutal carjacking of an 80-year-old Seattle dog walker. The incident resulted in the death of the dog walker, Ruth Dalton, and her dog. Prosecutors have requested that Haynes be held without bail, a request that was granted by the judge. Haynes is set to be arraigned on September 5.
According to officials, there is no known connection between Haynes and Dalton. The tragic event unfolded when Haynes forcibly entered Dalton’s vehicle while she was parked in Seattle’s Madison Valley neighborhood. He pushed her out of the car, causing her to be run over as he fled the scene, ultimately leading to her death.
Witnesses attempted to intervene, but Haynes threatened them with a knife before fleeing. Dalton’s dog was later found stabbed to death in a park after the incident.
Seattle police were able to identify Haynes after receiving a report of him harming a dog in a park. They found Dalton’s car nearby and were able to link Haynes to the crime through fingerprints found on her cellphone. Upon his arrest, Haynes was in possession of a knife with blood on it and the keys to Dalton’s car.
Prosecutors highlighted Haynes’ extensive criminal history, including convictions for vehicular homicide, robbery, and assault on corrections officers. They argued that his past behavior demonstrates a clear propensity for violence and poses a significant danger to the community.
Given the severity of the charges and Haynes’ criminal record, the judge agreed to hold him without bail. The case is ongoing, with Haynes facing serious consequences for his alleged actions.
Written by Martha Bellisle
