City of Spokane, WA

26/07/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 26/07/2024 19:38

Male in custody after West Spokane stabbing

Male in custody after West Spokane stabbing

Officer Daniel Strassenberg Public Information Office

Friday, July 26, 2024 at 12:35 p.m.

On July 25th, 2024 at noon, SPD responded to the area of 2700 West Sunset Boulevard on a report of a stabbing. Upon arriving, officers were advised the victim of the assault had already been transported to a local hospital. After contacting the victim, officers observed a substantial wound that was consistent with being stabbed/cut with an edged weapon. The victim advised officers that he does not know the male who assaulted him and that he simply lives near him.

When the stabbing occurred, the suspect approached the victim in a parking lot mumbling something about owing him money. The suspect had one of his hands concealed behind his back as he approached the victim. The suspect then lunged, stabbing him in his arm/wrist area before walking away. The suspect then drove away before officers arrived. After contacting the victim and witnesses, as well as reviewing surveillance video, probable cause was established for 1st Degree Assault.

At just after 5pm, SPD was advised that the suspect in the stabbing had returned to the area. Officers responded and located the suspect sitting in a vehicle. Due to the seriousness of the crime, the suspect's vehicle was pinned to prevent him from driving away. The suspect was uncooperative when contacted, refusing to exit the vehicle. At times the suspect yelled at officers to "shoot him". Officers continued with de-escalation techniques and the suspect was eventually taken into custody without incident.

Richard E. Koons (61) was charged with 1st Degree Assault and booked into the Spokane County Jail where he is scheduled for a court appearance this afternoon. Koons has extensive criminal history with prior felony convictions for Malicious Mischief with a Deadly Weapon and Court Order Violations. The victim of the stabbing was treated at a local hospital and is recovering.

Contact Police

For in progress crimes and emergencies call 911

To report a non-emergent crime contact:

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[email protected]

For nuisance reports, including code violations (i.e. illegal camping, substantial litter in yards or alleys, graffiti, land use violations), parking complaints, and road condition issues contact:

  • My Spokane: 311, or for outside city limits, 509.755.CITY (2489)
    Call Monday-Friday, 7 AM to 6 PM, or report online.

Media Relations Contact

Julie Humphreys
509.622.5868
[email protected]