POULSBO, Wash. — In a shocking family tragedy, two teenagers were found deceased in a home in Poulsbo last Wednesday, leading to the arrest of their half-brother, who is now accused of their murder. Authorities apprehended 23-year-old Seth South following a daylong manhunt after he evaded initial capture at the crime scene.
According to new details disclosed in court filings, the emergency unfolded when South reportedly contacted 911, claiming a family member had severely harmed themselves. However, the call abruptly shifted to silence, followed by sounds of a struggle before cutting off completely. Responding officers discovered the grim scene with both victims found lifeless—one in the kitchen and another at the top of the home’s staircase.
Further investigation into the familial dynamics revealed alarming statements attributed to South. Prior to the incident, he ominously told family members, “You’re either with me or against me” and chillingly admitted to killing “the boys.” The affidavit also noted South’s purported intentions to travel to Missouri to target another sibling.
Local law enforcement, aided by neighboring jurisdictions, was on high alert for South’s vehicle, which was eventually spotted on State Route 410 near Bonney Lake. A strategic deployment of stop sticks by Pierce County Sheriff’s Deputies successfully disabled his car, facilitating his capture. Upon his arrest, officers noted the presence of blood on the shift knob and driver’s seat of his vehicle, as well as bloody clothing.
South’s behavior remained erratic and violent even after his arrest. During an interrogation at a nearby police facility, he allegedly assaulted detectives as they attempted to re-handcuff him, resulting in minor injuries to one officer.
Currently, South is held at the Kitsap County Jail, facing two charges of second-degree murder and an assault charge linked to the altercation with the detective. His legal proceedings are expected to continue later this month.
This incident has deeply shaken the Poulsbo community, raising questions about the motivations behind such a heinous act and concerns over family violence. Psychologists emphasize the need for accessible mental health resources to help prevent family-related crimes, which often stem from unresolved internal conflicts and external pressures.
Local officials and community leaders are calling for increased awareness and preventative measures to address the underlying causes of domestic violence, hoping to avert future tragedies. The devastating impact of the events on the family’s extended relatives and friends has also highlighted the broader, often overlooked, effects of such incidents on communities.