Seattle Crime Report

On May 27, 2025, at approximately 19:05 hours, police responded to a dispatched call of an assault at the North Star apartment building located at 924 N 143rd St. The incident involved two residents, James Anthony Simms and Clifford 'Cliff' Burgess, who had a history of problems in the past. According to the victim, Cliff, he was attacked unprovoked by Simms while exiting an elevator.

Police reviewed video footage of the altercation, which showed Simms pepper-spraying Cliff from behind as he walked away from the elevator. Cliff then swung his cane but did not strike anyone. Simms was later arrested and charged with assault 4. A small container of pepper spray was found in his possession and submitted into evidence.

Simms was taken to the North Precinct, where he was screened by a supervisor before being transported to the King County Jail. He was booked into jail at approximately 20:10 hours. The incident is currently under investigation, and police are reviewing the video footage and interviewing witnesses to determine the circumstances surrounding the assault.

Simms, who has a history of residence at the North Star apartment building, was identified as the suspect through witness statements and video evidence. His arrest and booking into jail mark the latest development in the ongoing investigation into the incident. Further details about the case are expected to be released as the investigation continues.