Nicholas Frank Hokema Found Dead in Southcenter Mall Parking Lot in Tukwila
A man was discovered deceased in the Southcenter Mall parking lot in Tukwila early Monday morning, according to a colleague who spoke to The Olympian on Thursday. The man has now been identified as Nicholas Frank Hokema, a 34-year-old resident of Tumwater, as confirmed by the King County Medical Examiner’s Office. The cause of Hokema’s death was determined to be “multiple sharp force” injuries, according to the medical examiner.
A fellow RediCab driver named Jacob Stapp revealed that Hokema had been from Tumwater and had been working as a taxi driver for RediCab since 2016. Stapp, who has also been employed by the company since then, spoke fondly of Hokema, describing him as a “good-natured and kind-hearted guy.” Stapp mentioned that customers often praised Hokema for his excellent taste in music, which made a positive impact on their experience.
The Tukwila Police Department has not responded to requests for comment this week, but they have shared some information regarding the case on social media. Reports state that the man’s body was discovered in the mall parking lot around 4:15 a.m. on Monday. The police initially considered the death suspicious and activated their Major Crimes Unit to conduct an investigation.
However, on Thursday, the police made an official announcement on Facebook, stating that the man’s death is now being treated as a homicide. They are appealing to the public for assistance in identifying a taxi associated with the suspicious death. The vehicle in question is described as a 2012 red Toyota Camry four-door with RediCab markings. The police emphasized that the taxi light may or may not be illuminated on top of the vehicle, and that the hood and front bumper display slightly different shades of red. The RediCab company is actively cooperating with the Tukwila Police in their investigation.
Stapp revealed that he and his colleagues were informed of Hokema’s tragic demise by the police on Monday around noon. The loss of Hokema, who was greatly admired by his peers and appreciated by customers, has left a void in the hearts of those who knew him.
Anyone with information pertaining to the vehicle or the case is urged to contact the authorities by sending an email to Tips@TukwilaWA.gov.
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