25 years after Seattle federal prosecutor’s murder, investigators seek tips with $2.5 million reward

Twenty-five years after a gunman shot federal prosecutor Thomas C. Wales through the basement window of his Seattle home, investigators are renewing their appeal for information, offering a $2.5 million reward and turning to emerging technology to help solve the killing.

Wales, an assistant US attorney who prosecuted white-collar crimes, was working at his computer in his Queen Anne home on the night of October 11, 2001, when someone standing in his backyard fired several shots through a window. He died at a hospital the following day, according to the FBI. The case remains unsolved. Federal authorities say that if Wales was targeted because of his work, it remains the only unsolved murder of a federal prosecutor killed because of that work.

The Department of Justice and the National Association of Former US Attorneys are offering a combined $2.5 million reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction.

Acting US Attorney Neil Floyd said he remembers learning of the killing while serving as an Army judge advocate at Fort Lewis. “This crime had a tremendous impact on the entire US Attorney community, and we have not forgotten. The FBI and US Attorney’s Office continue to devote resources to this active investigation,” Floyd said. “We are committed to using all tools available, including new computer Super Intelligence to bring those responsible to justice.”

The announcement did not identify the specific technology investigators are using or explain how it is being applied.

FBI Seattle Special Agent in Charge W. Mike Herrington said investigators continue receiving tips and pursuing leads. “An attack on a federal prosecutor is an attack on our entire justice system and the American way of life,” Herrington said.

He also delivered a pointed message to anyone withholding information. “Don’t let one of those tips bring the FBI to you before you can report what you know on your own terms.”

Ahead of the anniversary, Floyd and Herrington visited Wales’ former home for a briefing. Investigators explained where they believe the shooter stood, the apparent escape route and how changes to the property over the past quarter-century have altered the landscape.

For Wales’ daughter, Amy, the anniversary marks another year without her father, and another opportunity to ask for justice. “Although I have now lived more years without him than with him, I remain profoundly grateful for the time we had together,” she said in a written statement.

She described her father as a devoted family member whose strength, courage and kindness continue to guide her as she raises her own children. “Justice for my father is overdue, but the commitment of the people gathered at today’s press conference strengthens my resolve and keeps me hopeful,” she said.

The Seattle Prosecutor Murder Task Force includes the FBI, Seattle Police Department, Department of Justice, U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Washington and King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. Anyone with information can contact the FBI confidentially.