Convicted WA felon arrested at Spanaway Walmart for gun reach

A routine shoplifting incident at a Spanaway Walmart escalated dramatically when 26-year-old convicted felon Zachary Jon Quichocho attempted to access a firearm during a confrontation with deputies. After Walmart security reported him for cutting tags off clothing, deputies approached him, leading to a tense struggle as he made a sudden move toward his backpack. Body camera footage captured the moments as officers quickly subdued him to prevent him from reaching the firearm. Upon searching the backpack, deputies discovered a large two-handed pistol classified as a firearm and a high-capacity 31-round magazine, alarming given Quichocho's criminal history. He claimed the bag and gun belonged to his sister, but surveillance footage showed him entering the store with it.

Currently on probation and with an outstanding warrant, Quichocho is charged with unlawful possession of a firearm, obstruction, and shoplifting. Pierce County Sheriff's Office Sgt. Darren Moss highlighted growing concerns about the prevalence of illegal firearms and high-capacity magazines in the area. The incident underscores the risks associated with individuals on probation possessing firearms, raising significant public safety concerns.