In a heartbreaking turn of events, an 80-year-old grandmother from Washington state lost her life during a carjacking earlier this week as she courageously defended two dogs. The Seattle Police Department identified the victim as Ruth Dalton, a beloved local dog walker. The incident, described by authorities as a senseless killing, led to the arrest of a 48-year-old suspect named Jahmed K. Haynes.

According to Deputy Chief Eric Barden of the Seattle Police Department, Dalton was in her car with two dogs when the suspect jumped in and attempted to push her out. Showing immense bravery, Dalton fought back to protect the dogs. Tragically, one of the dogs belonged to Dalton and was later found dead, having been fatally stabbed.

Following the carjacking, a SWAT team apprehended Haynes later that night. Upon his capture, he was found in possession of a bloody knife and the keys to Dalton's Subaru. The motive behind the killings remains unknown at this time. However, authorities shared that Haynes has a history of mental health issues and eight prior criminal convictions, including a vehicular homicide in 1993.

Members of the community rushed to Dalton's aid when they witnessed the carjacking unfold. Despite their efforts and the arrival of Seattle firefighters, Dalton could not be saved and tragically passed away at the scene. Her granddaughter, Melanie Roberts, fondly remembers Dalton as a kind, loving, and generous soul. Roberts expressed her belief that Dalton fought against the attacker to protect the dogs she considered part of her extended family.

Dalton had been operating her business, Grandma's Critter Care, for an astounding 35 years, starting it when she was only five years old to finance her education in a private Christian school. Over the years, she grew to love her job and the people she served. Roberts emphasized Dalton's incredible compassion for every animal and their human companions.

In a disturbing development, witnesses reported someone harming a dog at Brighton Playfield, approximately five miles away from the carjacking scene, later in the day. Animal control officers discovered a dog stabbed to death at the location, and its collar bore Dalton's name. The fate of the other dog involved in the carjacking remains unknown.

Haynes, the suspect in custody, was booked into the King County jail on charges of first-degree murder and first-degree animal cruelty. He currently remains incarcerated with no bond set, according to jail officials. The schedule for his court appearance and the status of his legal representation are yet to be determined.

The Seattle Police Department asks the public to come forward with any information regarding the case by contacting them at (206) 233-5000 or reaching out to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. This tragic incident has sparked both grief and outrage within the community as they mourn the loss of a vibrant and caring member whose life was unjustly taken in an act of senseless violence.