Spokane County Fire District #4 responded to reports of a fully engulfed trailer and exploding propane tanks in the Rustic Ridge Mobile Home Park. The situation escalated when shots were fired, putting firefighters and neighbors at risk.
Responding to a 911 call last Tuesday night on March 12th of a mobile home on fire with reports of exploding propane tanks, firefighters encountered a blazing trailer located in the Rustic Ridge Mobile Home Park on North Newport Highway. Amid their efforts to finish extinguishing the flames, shots rang out, endangering everyone present.
Firefighters and medics on the scene immediately responded by ensuring the safety of civilians and then taking cover themselves. Awaiting support from law enforcement, the first responders notified dispatchers of the shooter’s position in the woods to the north of the fire.
The suspect, later identified as 63-year-old Timothy S. King, was apprehended by Spokane County Sheriff’s Deputies and U.S. Marshals Task Force members. King’s erratic behavior, which included making threats to burn down the home, escalated into a dangerous situation, prompting the victim to call for help.
According to investigators, the incident began when King, who reportedly has a history of addiction, began acting erratically. The situation escalated, and the victim fled the scene after King threatened to burn down the trailer and began damaging the home. Witnesses reported seeing a male feeding the fire shortly before firefighters arrived. Two spent shell casings were recovered at the scene.
Firefighters were able to extinguish the blaze quickly. No one was injured in the incident. King is facing charges of Arson 1st Degree, Assault 2nd Degree (13 counts), Interfering with the Reporting of Domestic Violence, and Malicious Mischief 3rd Degree. The investigation is ongoing, and additional charges may be filed.
Sources:
- Spokane County Sheriff’s Office Facebook DPGazette.com/ejxdo Accessed March 14th 2024
- Spokane County Fire District #4 Facebook DPGazette.com/nekd1 Accessed March 14th 2024
