A violent altercation at a South Hill apartment complex in Spokane, Washington, left two men dead following a fatal stabbing and a subsequent shooting that authorities believe was an act of self-defense. The incident occurred around 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 14, 2025, at a residential complex near the 4100 block of South Regal Street. Spokane Police responded to multiple reports of a disturbance involving weapons and quickly secured the area upon arrival.
According to the Spokane Police Department, a 41-year-old man allegedly stabbed a 35-year-old man during a confrontation inside one of the apartment units. Witnesses reported hearing shouting and loud noises prior to the attack. Following the stabbing, another individual on the scene, who was reportedly armed, shot and killed the suspect in what authorities currently describe as a potential self-defense situation. Both the stabbing victim and the assailant died at the scene despite emergency efforts by first responders.
Investigators believe the men involved were acquainted and that this was not a random act of violence. While police have not released the identities of those involved pending notification of next of kin, they confirmed that the third individual, the shooter, remained at the scene and cooperated fully with investigators. Initial evidence, including witness statements and surveillance footage from the apartment complex, appears to support the preliminary account of self-defense, although the Spokane County Medical Examiner’s Office will conduct autopsies to provide official cause of death for both men.
Law enforcement officials conducted interviews with residents of the complex, many of whom expressed shock and concern over the sudden violence. The area surrounding the apartment was cordoned off for several hours as crime scene technicians gathered forensic evidence and detectives pieced together the timeline of events. Police confirmed that no additional suspects are being sought, and the public is not believed to be at risk.
Spokane Police have emphasized that the investigation remains active and ongoing. While early reports indicate the shooting was a defensive act following the stabbing, detectives are continuing to examine all aspects of the case. They are working closely with the Spokane County Prosecutor’s Office, which will ultimately determine whether any charges will be filed based on the circumstances and evidence presented.
The incident highlights growing concerns about violence in residential communities across Washington state, as well as the complex legal considerations surrounding the use of deadly force in self-defense. Spokane authorities have urged anyone with additional information or footage of the incident to contact the department’s tip line to assist in the investigation.
This double-fatality case has drawn attention citywide, prompting discussions about safety, conflict resolution, and mental health resources. As the community seeks answers and closure, law enforcement continues to stress the importance of transparency and due process in determining how the situation unfolded. More information is expected to be released in the coming days as autopsy results and forensic reports become available.
