SPOKANE -- More than a week after a Spokane Valley pastor was shot and killed, the only witness in the case still hasn't been interviewed.
That witness is the Spokane County Sheriff's deputy who shot him, Deputy Brian Hirzel.
Eight days ago, Scott Creach, 74, was killed by a gunshot wound to the chest at his business on his own property, The Plant Farm. Officials say Hirzel was patrolling the area, and the two engaged in a confrontation. A gun was found near Creach after he died.
The president of the Sheriff's Association told KREM 2 News there is no minimum amount of time listed in the collective bargaining agreement that investigators must wait to interview Deputy Hirzel. But he says years of scientific research show it is best to wait 72 hours before interviewing a law enforcement officer in a situation like this.
However, former Spokane County Prosecutor Jim Sweetser says waiting any amount of time could compromise an investigation.
"Once 48 hours pass, you've lost the benefit of any immediate investigation," says Sweetser.
The Sheriff's Office clearly stated Hirzel has been ready and willing to do the interview, but decided to wait until after his scheduled vacation -- that is prompting criticism.
"It makes the officer look like he's not taking the magnitude of this case seriously," says Sweetser. "The community obviously has a huge stake in this and wants answers sooner rather than later. "
Hirzel's interview with Spokane Police should take place sometime around noon on Friday.
