Derick Shafer dies in fatal Spokane shooting
Fatal Spokane shooting death of Derick Shafer
According to the Spokane Police Department, law enforcement received notification of a violent incident on a Sunday dawn at approximately 1 a.m., specifically at the intersection of 600 South McClellan Street. Upon their arrival, officers discovered a deceased individual inside a motor vehicle.
The Spokane County Medical Examiner formally identified the deceased as a 38-year-old man named Derick Shafer, with the official determination that this was a homicide case.
Initial reports from police indicate that a suspect approached the vehicle and opened fire, ultimately resulting in the man’s death. Following the attack, the alleged perpetrator fled the scene and remains at large, with authorities still searching for them.
Local media outlet KREM 2 spoke with residents living nearby, who confirmed they had heard gunshots throughout the neighborhood on Monday. Community members and business operators expressed concern over the ongoing challenges in the area, including elevated crime rates, substance abuse issues, and visible homelessness.
A neighbor, who requested anonymity, described the sounds of gunfire to reporters. This resident stated they heard several shots fired near their home, noting it was not unusual for law enforcement activities to occur in the vicinity. “I heard five or six shots in quick succession,” the source shared with the news station, adding that they learned of the incident the following day through media reports.
The Major Crimes Unit of the Spokane Police Department is leading the ongoing investigation into this fatal shooting. Authorities have not yet determined a possible motive, and they are actively seeking any available information from the public.
Individuals with potential leads are encouraged to reach out to the Crime Check hotline at 509-456-2233 to assist in solving this case.
