SPOKANE, Wash. – Investigators released new information describing the moments that led up to a Spokane police officer shooting and killing a shoplifting suspect earlier this month.
New information released by the Spokane Independent Investigative Response Team (SIIR) says that security footage shows suspect Kerry Q. Jones-Hilburg, 34, removing security tags and putting items into his jacket the morning of Dec. 3. SIIR noted what appeared to be a gun was concealed in a holster on Jones-Hilburg’s right side.
Two officers approached Jones-Hilburg after he attempted to leave with the stolen merchandise, and he immediately tried to resist, fought with both officers and broke free. Officers attempted to tase the suspect multiple times, but Jones-Hilburg continued to resist and tried to run. The altercation continued through the store when one officer yelled, “He’s got a gun!” Jones-Hilburg responded, “No, I don’t!”
SIIR said Jones-Hilburg was on his hands and knees when he raised his left hand toward his chest and into the area of the possible firearm. That’s when an officer, identified as Officer Karl Richardson, fired one shot.
Jones-Hilburg remained uncooperative and would follow commands. SIIR said officers pleaded with him to comply so they could safely provide medical treatment. When he began to lose consciousness, officers were able to provide medical attention as he could no longer resist physically.
Jones-Hilburg was pronounced dead on the scene.
A search warrant obtained by SIIR Investigators showed the gun was stolen and that the suspect was on meth at the time of the shooting. A second firearm and what appears to be Methamphetamine Fentanyl pills were discovered in the suspect’s car.
A second suspect was also arrested for assaulting one of the officers during the fight. Tylor S. Forester, 33, faces charges of third-degree assault to a law enforcement officer and obstructing a law enforcement officer.
Anyone who witnessed this incident, recorded it or has information that could assist SIIR Team Investigators and has yet to be contacted by law enforcement is asked to call Crime Check at 509-456-2233, reference #10180498.
