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Placer County Deputies Kill Murder Suspect After Hourslong Manhunt

The predawn shootout followed an overnight search that used helicopters and infrared to track a man who investigators say killed an elderly homeowner and set fires that hindered response.

Overview

  • The manhunt ended when Placer County deputies fatally shot 44-year-old Derek Spencer after he fired at officers during a predawn exchange on Monday.
  • Investigators found 76-year-old Cheryl Macy shot to death inside her Iowa Hill home and said they believe Spencer killed her before fleeing into the forest.
  • Authorities say Spencer led a short multi-county crime spree that included stealing a vehicle and guns and shooting at a moving car, and that he had been arrested and released several times in September.
  • Spencer reportedly started fires near the standoff that prevented firefighters from entering the area and required a Nevada helicopter to hoist his body out because flames were close to the scene.
  • Multiple agencies and eight SWAT teams used helicopters, drones and infrared imaging to locate Spencer, deputies recovered a handgun and rifle, and criminal and fire investigations into the killing and arson remain active.