Gregory Timm, 32, has been charged with first-degree assault following a shooting incident on Seattle’s waterfront on July 31, 2024. The shooting occurred after Timm allegedly confronted 68-year-old Harold Powell, a man in a wheelchair, accusing him of “stolen valor” — falsely claiming military service.
Confrontation Leads to Gunfire
The altercation took place at Seattle’s Pier 55, where Powell, known for playing music to earn donations, was approached by Timm. Timm reportedly demanded Powell show his military ID. When Powell attempted to retrieve his wallet, Timm removed a military patch from Powell’s belongings and continued to press for identification. Powell, feeling threatened, armed himself with a knife and an Airsoft gun. However, before Powell could act, Timm pulled out a handgun and shot him point-blank in the chest.
A chilling video released by the prosecutor’s office captured the moment. Timm can be seen pulling out a gun and firing in broad daylight, while bystanders walk nearby. Witnesses can be heard reacting, and several people flee the scene after the gunshot is heard.
Legal Implications and Timm’s History
The King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office emphasized that under Washington state law, a defendant who provokes an altercation cannot claim self-defense. Given that Timm is accused of instigating the confrontation, his claim to self-defense is unlikely to hold up in court. Timm was arrested and held on $750,000 bail after his initial court appearance.
Powell’s Recovery and Perspective
Despite the traumatic experience, Powell later shared his gratitude for being alive, saying, “I’m just blessed, I can still do my thing with my family. I’m blessed.” Powell recalled the moment the bullet struck, describing the sensation as seeing “the heat of the slug coming at me.”
Timm’s Prior Legal Troubles
This incident is not Timm’s first brush with the law. In February 2020, he was arrested in Jacksonville, Florida, for crashing a van into a Republican voter registration tent. Timm was charged with aggravated assault, criminal mischief, and driving with a suspended license. He later downplayed the incident as a “prank” but was convicted of criminal mischief and sentenced to 60 days in jail, which he had already served.
Court Proceedings and Future
Timm is due back in court for the Seattle shooting case on Monday, where further legal proceedings will unfold. The case is expected to highlight the serious consequences of Timm’s violent actions and his troubling history with the law.
