Please be advised that this story includes references to suicide and potential domestic violence. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, please reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for assistance. Those in need of support for domestic abuse can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or access their virtual chat service on their website.
A man from Washington state, Brent Sachio Isaac Hamamoto, has been accused of fatally shooting his wife just two weeks after their wedding, as detailed in court records. The victim, 36-year-old Yiwen Lu, lost her life to the gunfire allegedly inflicted by Hamamoto on the evening of the tragedy in their Issaquah residence near Seattle.
Prosecutors claim that Hamamoto fired two shots at his wife while she lay in bed, with the second shot delivered at close range to ensure her demise. Shockingly, it was revealed that the firearm used in the crime had been purchased by Hamamoto just the day before the incident, according to court documents.
In the aftermath of the fatal shooting, the King County Medical Examiner’s Office officially classified Lu’s death as a homicide, citing two gunshot wounds to her head, with evidence suggesting the weapon was fired from a proximity of within two feet of the victim.
The couple shared a one-year-old son, as confirmed in a sworn statement by a detective from the King County Sheriff’s Office. In the immediate aftermath of the shooting, authorities were alerted by an attorney, reporting the incident and the suspect fleeing with the child.
Hamamoto surrendered to authorities in Sammamish following a call from his brother-in-law, during which Hamamoto alluded to an “incident” without providing specific details. Prior to their marriage, Hamamoto had filed for a protection order against Lu, citing allegations of domestic violence and threats related to their son’s well-being.
The tragic events surrounding the newlyweds highlight the complexities of domestic relationships and the devastating consequences that can ensue.
“He didn’t want me to have any custody of our child. She pulled my son out of the car in the midst of a bustling street in Bellevue a few weeks back when she was angry with me, crossing at least two lanes,” he detailed in a message. “She has threatened to harm my son on two occasions… (She) occasionally hits him when she’s upset with him.”
Text message screenshots submitted in King County Superior Court show Lu expressing regret to Hamamoto regarding the alleged sexual assault. “I’m truly sorry,” she messaged, later inquiring whether he still cared for her. “I thought it’s completely different for guys. I assumed guys always desire it.” She then mentioned that she never intended to cause him harm. “I didn’t intend to assault you,” she stated. “And you’re aware of that.”
Hamamoto is presently detained at the King County Jail with a bail set at $3 million, as confirmed by officials. If found guilty, Hamamoto could face a sentence ranging from 15 to almost 24 years in prison. His upcoming court appearance is scheduled for an arraignment at 8:30 a.m. on Feb. 13.
This piece has been updated to rectify a typographical error. Saleen Martin is a member of the reporting team at USA TODAY’s NOW. Hailing from Norfolk, Virginia – the 757, she can be contacted via email at sdmartin@usatoday.com.
The original version of this article was published on USA TODAY: Washington man charged in wife’s killing 2 weeks after marriage.
