Here’s the latest Washington State news roundup as of early February 2026 (around February 5). I’ve pulled from major local sources like KING 5, KOMO, The Seattle Times, FOX 13, Washington State Standard, and others for key headlines across crime, politics, legislature, health, and more.Major Crime & Public Safety Stories
- A judge found probable cause to charge a suspect with second-degree murder in a fatal shooting inside a Renton grocery store (Mexican market). One person was killed after a fight broke out.
- Authorities identified the second teenager killed in a double homicide near Rainier Beach High School in Seattle last Friday. A $5K reward is offered for leads.
- Police are investigating a deadly shooting in Tacoma’s Hilltop neighborhood.
- A young child in Kitsap County died from a flu-related illness in January, per health officials.
Politics & Legislature
- The Washington Senate passed a bill with guardrails for license plate readers, including banning ICE access to the data.
- A proposal for a “millionaires tax” (income tax on high earners) has been introduced, as a payroll tax on big businesses appears to lack support among Democratic leaders.
- WA GOP is holding “listening sessions” on issues like trans athletes and parental rights.
- WSU programs face potential $11M+ cuts under the proposed state operating budget, which could lead to eliminating majors or reductions.
- Other notes: Special election underway in 38 counties (February 10); ongoing talks around taxes, public defense caseloads, and more in the 2026 legislative session (running through March).
Other Notable Headlines
- Washington is part of a nationwide winter blood shortage.
- Eddie Bauer (based in Washington) may close all North American stores amid potential bankruptcy.
- Light rail’s newest stretch (Angle Lake to Federal Way) will close Saturday for electrical repairs.
- Population growth: Washington outpaced the U.S. average last year (0.9% vs. 0.5%).
- Fun/local: Chris Pratt (Lake Stevens native) to introduce the Seahawks at Super Bowl LX; various events like Lunar New Year in Tacoma.