Cowlitz County sheriff's deputy killed in shooting, suspect dead

KALAMA, Wash. -- Sheriff's officials in Cowlitz County confirm that a person of interest in the shooting death of a deputy was killed in a shootout Sunday night.

Sheriff Brad Thurman said the suspect accused of shooting and killing deputy Justin DeRosier, 29, was found on Spencer Creek Road Sunday night and fired one round before he was shot and killed by officers.

The sheriff told KPTV that two other suspects have been detained in connection with the deputy's murder  and are facing lesser charges.

Investigators said at about 10:15 p.m. Saturday, DeRosier was shot while checking on a disabled RV.

The scene was approximately three miles east of I-5.

The deputy was airlifted to a local hospital for treatment but was pronounced dead a short time later, according to Washington State Patrol.

DeRosier grew up in Kelso and was a graduate of Kelso High School and Washington State University.

He had been a deputy with the Cowlitz County Sheriff's Office since May 1, 2016.

He leaves behind a wife and 5-month-old daughter.

Details on his funeral arrangements have not been released. If you'd like to help the family, click here.