Death – Obituary – Accident and Crime News : Spokane, Washington – The Spokane County Medical Examiner has identified the victim of a fatal shooting at a North Spokane Walmart as 34-year-old Kerry Jones-Hilburg. The incident occurred over the weekend and resulted in the death of Jones-Hilburg, as well as injuries to two Spokane police officers.
The cause of death was determined to be a gunshot wound to the torso, and the manner of death has been ruled a homicide, according to the medical examiner’s office.
Details about the incident are limited due to the ongoing investigation by the Spokane Independent Investigative Response Team. The shooting took place at the Walmart on North Colton, and the circumstances leading up to the confrontation between Jones-Hilburg and the police officers are still under investigation.
According to the Spokane Police Department (SPD), one officer had requested backup for shoplifting prevention at around 9:30 a.m. on Sunday. The department regularly conducts shoplifting emphasis “specials,” where on-duty officers are assigned to stores to deter theft.
When the backup officer arrived, they confronted Jones-Hilburg, who was identified as the suspect. A prolonged physical confrontation ensued, and at some point, someone shouted “Gun.” Shortly before 10:30 a.m., at least one officer fired their weapon, resulting in the death of Jones-Hilburg.
SPD reported finding a gun and ammunition on Jones-Hilburg, as well as discharged tasers at the scene. Both officers involved in the altercation sustained injuries, but they were not shot. One officer was taken to the hospital for treatment, while the condition of the other officer is currently unknown. Thankfully, no other individuals in the store were harmed during the incident.
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, and the Spokane Independent Investigative Response Team will continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses to determine the sequence of events and the circumstances surrounding the use of deadly force.
As the community awaits further updates on the investigation, it is crucial to respect the process and allow the authorities to conduct a thorough and unbiased inquiry into the tragic incident at the North Spokane Walmart.