In brief: Chattaroy couple’s deaths probed

Detectives are investigating the deaths of an elderly man and woman in Chattaroy as a murder-suicide, according to the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office.

Their bodies were discovered Friday in a trailer in the 3100 block of East Chattaroy Road. Both people were in their 70s.

Fire personnel found a body on the floor of the home after an out-of-state relative called the Sheriff’s Office about 9:50 a.m. and asked that deputies check on the couple.

“Names, cause of death, and manner of death will be provided after autopsy Monday,” sheriff’s spokesman Sgt. Dave Reagan said in a news release.

Staff reports

Beware of swindlers, area utilities warn

Kootenai Electric Cooperative and Avista Utilities are warning consumers to protect themselves from scams by requesting identification when someone claiming to represent either of the utilities knocks on their door.

Recently, Kootenai Electric and Avista have learned of businesses going door-to-door to sell energy conservation products and services. Both Kootenai and Avista employees carry identification and drive marked vehicles; customers are reminded to check with their utility to verify anyone stating they represent the utility before signing any contracts.

Employees typically do not need access to a home or business unless the customer has contacted them about a specific problem or program and employees do not phone or e-mail customers asking for confidential information.

Kootenai Electric Cooperative can be reached at (208) 765-1200. Avista Utilities can be reached at (800) 227-9187.

Chelsea Bannach

Child kidnapping attempt reported

Police are investigating a reported child abduction attempt Friday in northeast Spokane.

A third-grade girl was approached by a man “holding his arms out toward her,” about 8:30 a.m. near East Euclid Avenue and North Altamont Street, according to the Spokane Police Department.

The girl ran away and caught up with her brother, then ran to school, where the two reported the incident, police said.

The man was described as white, tall, clean-shaven and in his late 20s to early 30s. He wore blue jeans and a brown coat similar to a heavy work or hunting jacket, police said.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Check at (509) 456-2233.

Staff reports