Renton detectives release new details in unsolved 2023 parking lot murder of Corbett Painter

Detectives release new details on a black sedan linked to the 2023 murder of Corbett Painter in a Renton parking lot, citing possible mistaken identity.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 26, 2026, 6:27 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from FOX 13 Seattle

A Cold Case Reinvigorated by New Evidence

More than three years after a fatal shooting claimed the life of a local father, the Renton Police Department is renewing its call for leads. On March 7, 2023, 37 year old Corbett Painter was sitting in his car in the Benson Plaza Fred Meyer parking lot when an unidentified individual opened fire. Despite the time that has passed, detectives are now sharing specific details regarding the suspect's movements and the vehicle involved. The case remains a high priority for local investigators who are determined to provide closure for a family described as being left with a massive void.

Witness Accounts and the Moments Following the Attack

The initial response to the scene was triggered by reports of multiple gunshots and a vehicle speeding away from the plaza. According to Renton Police spokesperson Meeghan Black, a critical witness who had been parked alongside Painter’s vehicle at the time of the shooting contacted 911 after reaching safety. The witness reported that they were engaged in a conversation with Painter when a figure dressed entirely in black approached and began shooting. While first responders rushed Painter to Harborview Medical Center, he ultimately succumbed to his wounds. The lack of a detailed physical description of the shooter has hindered the investigation, as surveillance footage from the immediate area was hampered by low light conditions and poor image quality.

Suspect Vehicle Identified in Surveillance Footage

New forensic analysis of surrounding security cameras has provided detectives with a clearer picture of the suspect's escape route. Following the shooting, the perpetrator fled in a black sedan. Surprisingly, the vehicle did not immediately leave the vicinity of the crime. Surveillance video captured the car circling the area and eventually parking at a gas station situated above the grocery store parking lot. Detectives believe that someone in the community may recognize this vehicle or have information regarding who was operating it on the night of the murder.