Deputy shoots, kills suspect in N. Spokane pursuit

Erin Robinson by Erin Robinson

Heavy law enforcement presence was reported near Post and Wedgwood. Copyright 4 News Now

SPOKANE, Wash. — A Spokane County Sheriff’s Office deputy shot and killed a suspect following an early morning pursuit in North Spokane on Friday.

Sheriff Ozzie Knezovich said the deputy attempted a traffic stop that led to a pursuit around 3:50 a.m. The pursuit ended when the suspect hit a fence near Post and Wedgewood.

Knezovich said the suspect got out of the vehicle and walked toward the deputy. The deputy reportedly gave the suspect calls to stop, but the suspect refused. The deputy then attempted to deploy a taser, which failed.

That led to a foot pursuit. Knezovich said the suspect stopped again and reached into his pocket. The deputy reportedly gave more commands and when the suspect refused to stop, fired a shot. The suspect then died on scene.

Knezovich said the deputy involved has been placed on administrative leave per protocol.

WATCH LIVE: The Spokane County Sheriff's Office provides an update on the heavy presence near Post and Washington. Posted by 4 News Now on Friday, January 10, 2020

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