Suspect pleads not guilty in alleged football player shooting

Jakori Buchanan, a 20-year-old University of Washington student, pleaded not guilty to multiple charges including felony second-degree assault for allegedly shooting WSU football player Uilisone “Sone” Falealo during a party in Pullman on September 21. The trial is set for December 8, and if convicted of the felony charge, Buchanan could face up to 10 years in prison. Prosecutor Dan LeBeau emphasized that Buchanan transported a loaded pistol from Seattle and evaded police for nearly 72 hours, presenting a potential flight risk. Falealo, who was shot in the abdomen, has since been released from the hospital. The court documents reveal that an altercation occurred when Falealo and other football players attempted to remove Buchanan from the party.

Witnesses reported seeing Buchanan strike Falealo with a handgun before a gunshot was heard. Police found a 9 mm cartridge casing at the scene and identified Buchanan as a suspect through witness interviews. Buchanan's attorney claims he acted in self-defense, and he has no prior criminal history.