In the 1980s, the proliferation of illegal drugs in U.S. cities led to a dramatic increase in gang-related violence. While drug issues remain a challenge today, especially with the opioid crisis, the drug epidemic of the 1980s and ’90s presented unique difficulties. One of the most intense incidents of that era occurred in Tacoma, Washington, where U.S. Army Rangers found themselves involved in a tense standoff with local gang members, highlighting the escalating violence linked to the drug trade.
Staff Sgt. William Foulk bought a house in a rough neighborhood
Staff Sgt. William “Bill” Foulk, a member of the 2nd Ranger Battalion stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington, decided to purchase a house in Tacoma’s Hilltop neighborhood, which had a reputation for gang violence. He acquired the property for just $10,000, seeing it as a wise investment, believing the area’s value would increase over time.
However, Foulk likely underestimated the level of danger he was stepping into. Crime was rampant, with drug transactions happening in broad daylight and gang members walking around armed with automatic weapons, unchallenged. Hilltop had earned a reputation comparable to the “Wild West” due to its rampant violence.
During this time, Tacoma’s police force was understaffed and struggled to contend with the heavily armed gangs, making it difficult to maintain order in the area.
Houses along the block saw serious gang activity
Staff Sgt. Foulk began to suspect that people living in a nearby house on Ash Street, where he also lived, were involved in drug dealing…