AI-generated illustration; not a photograph of the reported event.
- calendar_today October 27, 2026
Michael Knapinski Pleads Guilty in Bothell Drug-Related Shooting
Michael Knapinski, a 51-year-old Woodinville resident who previously received national attention for surviving a harrowing rescue on Mount Rainier, has pleaded guilty to murder in connection with a 2024 shooting in Bothell, according to court records.
Background: From a Rescue on Mount Rainier to Criminal Charges
Knapinski first became known in November 2020, when he was rescued after getting lost in whiteout conditions during a hike at Mount Rainier National Park. His heart reportedly stopped for 45 minutes, and after being revived, Knapinski publicly stated that the near-death experience inspired him to dedicate his life to helping others.
Fatal Shooting at Bothell Safeway Parking Lot
Four years after the rescue, Knapinski was arrested for the shooting of 42-year-old Granite Falls resident Jason Martinell. On the night of October 25, 2024, deputies began investigating when Martinell’s body was discovered face down in a Safeway parking lot at Thrasher’s Corner, near the Bothell Everett Highway. Martinell was pronounced dead at the scene.
Details of the Drug-Related Shooting
According to investigators, text messages between Knapinski and Martinell indicated Knapinski intended to purchase approximately $1,900 worth of drugs from Martinell, who had mentioned his plan to “go clean.” A witness reported that Knapinski picked up Martinell in a black SUV, and the two drove to the grocery store. The witness further told detectives that after the men parked, the passenger door began to open before Martinell exited the vehicle. Knapinski then reportedly drove away in the SUV.
The initial investigation found no obvious injuries on Martinell, but a medical examiner later discovered a small wound on the back of his head, which was determined to be a gunshot wound, according to court records. Dash camera video from another nearby witness recorded the sound of a single gunshot before an individual appeared to fall from the vehicle.
Investigative Process and Arrest
Detectives used text messages about a drug deal involving methamphetamine and fentanyl to link Knapinski to the shooting. Knapinski was also identified as the driver of an SUV matching the description given by witnesses. Two days after the shooting, Knapinski allegedly confessed to a mutual friend, saying, “I shot him… I did it,” followed by an apology for Martinell’s death. He was arrested later that day and has remained in the Snohomish County Jail since.
Plea Agreement and Sentencing
Prosecutors initially charged Knapinski with second-degree murder with a firearm, later upgrading the charges to first-degree murder and second-degree unlawful possession of a firearm. Instead of proceeding to trial, Knapinski accepted a plea agreement for the reduced charge of second-degree murder with a firearm. The standard sentencing range for this felony is 10 to 18 years in prison, with an additional five-year enhancement for the firearm charge. Under the terms of the plea agreement, prosecutors have recommended a sentence totaling just over 19 years in prison. Knapinski's sentencing hearing is scheduled for November 4 in Snohomish County Superior Court.
Source: heraldnet.com.
