Mother Claims Son Was ‘Doing Witchcraft’ and ‘Occult Behavior’ at Washington Home Where 4 People Were Fatally Stabbed

A concerning incident has unfolded in Gig Harbor, Washington, where four individuals were fatally stabbed outside a residential property on Tuesday, 24 February 2026. The suspect, identified as Aleksandr Shablykin, was shot and killed by police officers at the scene, following reports of the violent altercation.

Zoya Shablykin, Aleksandr’s mother, had previously sought protection from her son. In May 2025, a court granted her a one-year protective order, citing fears for her safety due to alleged threats and erratic behaviour on Aleksandr’s part. These details have come to light through court documents recently obtained by media sources, including PEOPLE.

According to accounts from the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office, authorities were responding to a reported violation of a no-contact order shortly before the violent events unfolded. They were en route to serve Aleksandr the order when they received alarming reports regarding the stabbings. Initial reports indicated that three victims died at the scene, while a fourth succumbed to their injuries after being transported to a local hospital.

Local news station KING 5 has reported that Zoya Shablykin’s protective order against Aleksandr highlighted her distressing claims. In her petition, she described the ongoing mental and emotional abuse, asserting that her son was engaging in “witchcraft” and “occult behaviour” within their home. Zoya, who described herself as an elderly disabled woman, detailed experiences that included the odd disappearance of her pet cat and strange smells emanating from her house.

In one alarming instance in April 2025, after returning home, Zoya recalled encountering an unusual odour, a malfunctioning smoke detector, and her cat missing. She alleged that these circumstances were indicative of occult rituals carried out by Aleksandr, describing his behaviour at the time as “delusional.” Moreover, Zoya alleged that Aleksandr had threatened her life, stating that he had told her “that her grave has already been dug.”

The protective order established that Aleksandr was prohibited from possessing any dangerous weapons and mandated his participation in a mental health treatment programme. It also enforced a restriction requiring him to maintain a distance of at least 1,000 feet from Zoya, including her home, vehicle, and workplace.

Following the tragic events, neighbours expressed their shock and disbelief. One resident, who witnessed the aftermath, noted the contrasting nature of the incident with the generally safe and friendly atmosphere of the community. “It was still extremely shocking…because it’s a son and a mother,” the neighbour shared, reflecting on the violence that erupted in what they described as an ordinarily peaceful area.

In the wake of this tragedy, concerns about mental health and domestic violence are being raised. If you or anyone you know is struggling with mental health issues, resources are available. The Crisis Text Line offers support by texting “STRENGTH” to 741-741, providing free and confidential assistance from certified crisis counsellors.

Additionally, for those experiencing domestic violence, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7, offering confidential help in over 170 languages. They can be reached at 1-800-799-7233 or through their website at thehotline.org.

As investigations continue into this deeply distressing case, local authorities and the wider community remain in mourning for the victims of this tragic incident. The circumstances surrounding the altercation are being examined as police seek to understand the events that led to such a devastating outcome.