Wounded trooper sues accused gunman for $3 million

SEATTLE – A Washington State Patrol trooper who was shot in the head last weekend in Long Beach has filed a $3 million civil lawsuit against the man accused of shooting him.

Trooper Scott Johnson's attorney filed the suit Thursday against Martin A. Jones, 45, of Seaview, who is accused of shooting Johnson twice in the head at point-blank range.

The shooting took place Saturday around 1 a.m. as the trooper was inventorying the contents of a van that Jones' wife had been driving earlier when she was pulled over and arrested on suspicion of DUI.

According to the State Patrol, Jones approached Trooper Johnson as he was processing the van. After a short conversation with the trooper, Jones walked away, then returned and allegedly shot Johnson in the head.

Trooper Johnson, the father of four children, is currently on medical leave from the State Patrol while he recovers from the gunshot wounds. Bullet fragments are still lodged in the trooper's head and can't be safely removed.

Martin A. Jones

Jones has been charged with attempted murder in the case and is being held in the Pacific County Jail on $5 million bail.

Johnson's attorney, Jeffery M. Campiche of Seattle, grew up within blocks of the shooting in the coastal community of Long Beach, and served as Pacific County prosecutor from 1978 to 1986.

He said Johnson is completely disabled for the time being, and it is unknown what his long-term prognosis might be.

He currently can't work as a trooper, nor can he operate machinery for a construction business he owns, Campiche said.

He said Johnson filed a civil suit because he feels Jones should be required to compensate him for all of his financial losses and harms, Campiche said.

Trooper Johnson is a 25-year veteran of the State Patrol and has worked in the Pacific County area his entire career.