I believe that's a grouse. I can't see enough to say which one if I'm correct. Bet that was a shock for your friend. They're not the smallest of birds. :)
Ging

I'm with Ging - it appears to be a grouse. Based on it's habitat and geographic location, likely a forest grouse of some sort. I'd hazard ruffed grouse - bonasa umbellus, though it could be a spruce grouse (less likely in WA).

Thanks everyone! I also posted on the bird forum and they seem to think it is a blue grouse. He said it was pretty big and when he came toward it to take a pic, it raised it's wings and came toward him like it was coming after him. haha, I think he was overreacting a bit :)