Joel Malin’s life ended at just 20 years old, leaving behind a family now seeking answers after he was fatally shot by a Spokane County sheriff’s deputy outside Evergreen Middle School in Spokane Valley.
The Spokane County Medical Examiner identified Malin as the man killed in the September 8 incident and reported that he died from multiple gunshot wounds.
According to authorities, a deputy responded to a 911 call about a suspicious person near the school. Sheriff John Nowels said the man allegedly confronted the deputy and presented what appeared to be a firearm, leading the deputy to use lethal force. Students and staff at the school were reported safe.
Following the shooting, the deputy was placed on administrative leave while the Spokane Independent Investigative Response team took over the investigation.
Malin’s family has now hired attorney Rondi Thorp to investigate his death and potentially pursue a wrongful-death lawsuit, according to the information provided by the family’s legal representative.
Details about Joel’s early life, personality, education, career, relationships and family have not been publicly confirmed in the reliable sources reviewed. Those details should not be assumed or invented.
His death has left loved ones facing grief while questions surrounding the shooting remain under investigation. For his family, the search for answers is now part of remembering a young life that ended far too soon.
As the investigation continues, Joel Malin’s family is seeking clarity about the circumstances that led to his death and hoping the process will provide accountability and understanding.