SPOKANE, Wash. — Someone at the scene of an incident where a Spokane police officer shot and killed a suspected shoplifter yelled ‘gun’ prior to the shooting, according to the first release from the investigative team.
Initial information gathered from the Spokane Independent Investigative Response Team (SIIR) indicates an officer and backup officer approached the suspect, as it appeared he was shoplifting around 9:45 a.m. on Dec. 3. The suspect began to exit the store, starting a physical altercation when officers tried to detain him. Tasers were used but were ineffective, according to SIIR.
SIIR said at some point, someone yelled “gun,” and just before 10:30 a.m., an SPD officer fired shots, striking the suspect.
Officers and additional deputies attempted life-saving measures until fire and AMR arrived. Despite efforts, the suspect was pronounced dead at the scene.
Officer-involved shooting protocol was immediately prompted, Walmart was evacuated, and the scene was secured while awaiting the SIIR team.
SIIR and Spokane County Forensics Unit personnel remained on the scene for hours to collect evidence and interview witnesses. SIIR found a loaded firearm with additional ammunition believed to belong to the suspect.
Anyone who witnessed, recorded or has information on this incident that could help SIIR Team Investigators is asked to call Crime Check at 509-456-2233, reference #10180498.
