LACEY, Wash. – A tragic double homicide in Lacey, Washington, has left the community in shock. Julia Maupin, a 24-year-old pregnant woman and an active duty soldier from Joint Base Lewis-McChord, were found dead on June 20, 2024. The suspect, identified as a 21-year-old man, was arrested following a police chase on Interstate 5.
Authorities have revealed that the suspect, John Maupin, who is married to one of the victims, was taken into custody and denied bail due to probable cause of second-degree murder. The Thurston County Coroner’s Office confirmed that Julia Maupin was seven months pregnant at the time of her death. The tragic incident unfolded in the 5400 block of 57th Loop SE in Lacey, with both victims suffering fatal gunshot wounds.
According to court documents, Colleen O’Toole, the mother of Julia Maupin, described her daughter as a vibrant and caring individual who was eagerly anticipating motherhood. O’Toole expressed her devastation at the loss of her daughter and unborn grandchild. She recounted the heartbreaking moment when she discovered her daughter and their roommate, who had been residing with them, both shot in their home.
During the investigation, witnesses reported an argument between Maupin and the suspect hours before the shooting. The suspect allegedly took Maupin’s phone without permission, leading to a confrontation. However, the motive behind the tragic events remains unclear. Following a pursuit by law enforcement, the suspect was apprehended near the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge.
As the community reels from this senseless act of violence, O’Toole’s emotional plea for justice and closure echoes throughout Lacey. The suspect’s erratic behavior, claiming to have an alter ego responsible for the crime, adds a chilling layer to this heartbreaking tragedy. The suspect faces charges of second-degree domestic-violence murder, first-degree domestic-violence assault, and attempted eluding, underscoring the severity of the crime.
The impact of this double homicide reverberates through the tight-knit community, emphasizing the need for support and understanding in the face of such devastating loss. The arraignment for John Maupin is scheduled for July 2nd, as the legal proceedings unfold in the wake of this horrific event. The investigation into this heartbreaking incident continues as authorities work to piece together the events leading to the tragic loss of two lives in Lacey, Washington.