Detective Brian Frederick Orchard

Brian Frederick Orchard

Detective Brian Orchard was shot and killed while conducting an undercover stakeout of two thieves wanted for the theft of a valuable gun collection at the 500 block of South Pine.

The suspects had attempted to ransom the collection for $20,000. When the men pulled up to the surveillance area, Detective Orchard approached the car and identified himself. One of the occupants fired a shot from inside the car, striking Detective Orchard in the head. Both men were later arrested.

Detective Orchard's killer was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. His request for clemency was denied in 2011 and 2022.

Detective Orchard was a United States Army veteran and had served with the Spokane Police Department for 15 years. He was survived by his wife and three children.