Two Spokane County Deputies conducting a traffic stop near Elm and Newport Hwy were met with gunfire. Officers from surrounding agencies quickly descended and began to search for the suspect. The suspect was eventually stopped near Dear Park and died at the scene. The deputies remain in the hospital, receiving treatment for their injuries.

Details  This afternoon, June 19, 2012, around 4:15pm, Narcotics detectives requested the assistance of two Spokane County Sheriff's Deputies. The detectives asked the deputies to conduct a traffic stop on an SUV near Elm St. and Newport Highway. Within seconds, deputies advised they had been shot and were injured.

Responding officers located the SUV, unoccupied, near Division St and Graves St. A K9 track was attempted but no one was located.

A few blocks away, 9800 N. Andrews, an elderly woman called police to report that her Honda Accord had just been stolen. The suspect forced his way into her home and demanded her car keys. The 85 year old woman chased the suspect out of the house, hitting him with her cane. The suspect, armed with a gun, stole her vehicle and fled.

Local law enforcement officers converged in the area in search of the suspect. The suspect vehicle was seen near Hwy 2 and Big Meadows Road and a pursuit ensued. During the course of the pursuit, gun fire was exchanged between the suspect and the responding officers.

By 5:20pm, the suspect vehicle drove over spike strips deployed by officers. The suspect's vehicle then struck an unoccupied SPD patrol car and crashed. The suspect shot himself and died at the scene.

The two injured deputies remain in the hospital receiving treatment. One deputy has been listed in serious condition, the other is in stable condition.

Several main arterials were shut down due to the large scale investigation. Law enforcement appreciated the patience of rush hour drivers.

This event was extremely dynamic and rapidly unfolding. Information was constantly being given to responding officers who continued to search for the primary suspect. Other individuals may have been involved, creating other locations within the City and the County to receive police attention.

Anyone who may have witnessed something, or has information for the investigation is asked to call Crime Check at 456-2233.

The Spokane Investigative Regional Response Team protocol was activated. The team is comprised of members of the Spokane Police Department, the Washington State Patrol and the Spokane County Sheriff's Office.