SPOKANE, Wash. — A 22-year-old man has been arrested after he reportedly shot his mom and stepdad during a heated argument.
According to the Spokane County Sheriff's Office (SCSO), Charlie J. Birkland was arrested and charged with two counts of attempted first-degree murder after he shot and seriously injured his mom and stepdad. He is expected to be booked into the Spokane County Jail on Tuesday evening.
SCSO deputies responded to the 8900 block of South Windmill Drive at 10:10 a.m. on Friday. During the investigation, deputies learned a 22-year-old suspect, later identified as Birkland, got into an argument with his mom and stepfather. The argument started in the house where the three live together.
At some point, the situation escalated and Birkland "armed himself with a handgun." He then shot both victims and left the scene, according to SCSO.
The two victims were taken to the hospital with serious injuries but are said to be stable.
Later Tuesday morning, a deputy found Birkland in the parking lot of Spokane County Fire District 81. He was detained and taken to the Public Safety Building to be interviewed. Probable cause was later found to charge him with two counts of attempted first-degree murder.
Birkland is expected to appear in Spokane County Court on Wednesday afternoon.
This is a developing story and will be updated when more information is available.
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