Suspect in Deadly Spokane Stabbing Killed in Police Shooting

Richard Sheppard, 47, was identified as the man shot by police during the investigation.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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The Spokane County Medical Examiner has identified the man shot and killed by Spokane police during an investigation into a deadly stabbing at the Apple Tree Inn as 47-year-old Richard Sheppard. Police say Sheppard was a suspect in the stabbing and was armed with a shotgun when confronted by officers.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the challenges and risks police face when responding to violent crimes, as well as the need for thorough investigations into police use of force. The death of Sheppard raises questions about de-escalation tactics and whether alternative approaches could have resolved the situation without lethal force.

The details

According to the preliminary investigation report, Spokane police responded to the 1800 block of W. Carlisle Avenue around 11 p.m. Tuesday as part of the homicide investigation. They identified Sheppard as a suspect and set up a perimeter around the area. Police say Sheppard was spotted moving in and out of a garage with what appeared to be a long gun. Around 1:43 a.m., Sheppard allegedly ran from the location and jumped over neighboring fences, where officers confronted him. Police reported firing their weapons, and Sheppard was struck and killed. Investigators recovered a loaded 12-gauge shotgun and additional ammunition on Sheppard's body.

  • Police responded to the area around 11 p.m. on Tuesday, February 27, 2026.
  • The shooting incident occurred around 1:43 a.m. on Wednesday, February 28, 2026.

The players

Richard Sheppard

A 47-year-old man identified as the suspect in a deadly stabbing at the Apple Tree Inn and who was shot and killed by Spokane police during the investigation.

Spokane Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to the stabbing incident and confronted the armed suspect, resulting in the fatal shooting.

Spokane County Medical Examiner

The agency that identified the deceased suspect as Richard Sheppard.

Spokane Independent Investigative Response (SIIR) Team

The team, led by the Spokane County Sheriff's Office, that is now investigating the police shooting of Richard Sheppard.

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What’s next

The Spokane Independent Investigative Response (SIIR) Team, headed by the Spokane County Sheriff's Office, is now investigating the police shooting of Richard Sheppard.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the complex and dangerous situations police face when responding to violent crimes, as well as the need for continued scrutiny and improvement of de-escalation tactics and use-of-force policies to minimize loss of life during law enforcement encounters.