Spokane Valley, WA – Spokane Valley Deputies avoided tragedy early Monday morning after a suspect allegedly grabbed what appeared to be a handgun during a burglary investigation — later determined to be a realistic-looking CO2 BB gun.
According to the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded around 1:10 a.m. on December 16, 2025, to a reported commercial burglary at a business in the 14000 block of East Sprague Avenue. A witness said several people had been camping near the dumpster and trying to open the rear door of the business.
When deputies arrived, they located a gray Honda Odyssey still running in the parking lot. Inside, 38-year-old Craig J. Richardson allegedly crawled toward the front seats as deputies attempted contact. Deputies then observed Richardson grab a tan-colored handgun and began issuing commands to drop it.
Deputies report Richardson appeared confused, sluggish, and intoxicated. After fumbling with the weapon, he was safely detained without incident. The pistol was later confirmed to be a CO2-powered BB gun.
Authorities noted signs of drug and alcohol use inside the van, including empty containers and a strong odor of marijuana. Richardson was transported for evaluation and later booked into the Spokane County Jail on charges including Physical Control of a Vehicle While Under the Influence, Obstructing Law Enforcement, and Brandishing/Intimidating with a Weapon.
Officials commended deputies for preventing what could have been a deadly confrontation. No one was injured.
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