PORT ORCHARD, Wash. — The South Kitsap High School community is rallying together to support basketball coach Anthony Lewis, who the district confirmed was shot while driving on Interstate 5 Sunday.
"He's dedicated, he's passionate, he's a great leader, a great mentor, and the impact he has had on kids has been undeniable- and on staff and colleagues," said Lindsey Foster, director of athletics and activities for the South Kitsap School District. "At the end of the day, his impact on students has been what has been really amazing to see."
Washington State Patrol said the shooting happened around 1:30 a.m. on Sunday along I-5 near 54th Street. Someone opened fire multiple times, hitting his vehicle and causing it to crash. According to a fundraiser, Lewis was on his way home from a second job in Kent when he was hit multiple times.
He faces overwhelming medical bills, along with costs due to a totaled car. So far, more than $34,000 has been donated; along with financial support, people have come forward with offers to help and messages of support.
"The outpouring of love and care for that has been incredible, even amongst the athletics community, there have been coaches and administrators in the state of Washington that have immediately reached out asking how can we help," Foster said.
Foster said Lewis is known for his integrity, morals, values and work ethic – and his impact on the entire school community is significant.
'He's dedicated, he's compassionate, he cares, he gives his students a voice, he listens, he always prides himself on being a democratic coach, which is a new or changing way of thinking in the coaching profession," Foster said. "He's collaborative with the student-athletes, which I think has allowed them to really buy in and support Coach Anthony and vice versa."
Washington State Patrol said there have been more than a dozen highway or freeway shootings in the state already in 2024.