Army Rangers Vs Crips

Ash Street Shootout: Army Rangers Battle Tacoma Gang Members

Tacoma, Washington - September 23, 1989

Off-duty Army Rangers engage in deadly confrontation with Hilltop Crips

In a shocking turn of events, an off-duty Army Ranger engaged in a fierce gunfight with members of the Hilltop Crips gang in Tacoma, Washington on September 23, 1989. The incident, known as the Ash Street shootout, resulted in multiple injuries and the death of one gang member.

The shootout began when Army Ranger Bill Foulk, who had recently purchased a house in the rough Tacoma neighborhood, intervened in an argument between two men. One of the men was later identified as a member of the Hilltop Crips. As Foulk attempted to de-escalate the situation, he was attacked by three armed gang members.

Foulk, using his military training, managed to subdue and disarm two of the attackers. The third gunman, however, managed to escape. Foulk, fearing for his life, pursued the fleeing gang member down Ash Street, leading to a prolonged gunfight that involved several other members of the Hilltop Crips.

The ensuing battle, which lasted for several minutes, drew the attention of law enforcement and led to a massive police response. Multiple Tacoma police officers arrived on the scene and assisted in subduing the remaining gang members. Foulk was praised by Tacoma Police Chief Donald Ramsdell for his bravery and quick thinking, which prevented further casualties.