IONE, Wash.-- Authorities say two Spokane men killed each other during a drunken confrontation near Yocum Lake, just south of the small town of Ione this weekend.
Authorities say what happened could have easily been avoided, if alcohol was not involved.
According to his sister, 18-year-old Richard Hill loved to loved to camp, loved to fish, and loved the outdoors.
Authorities say this weekend Hill and nine other people went to Yocum Lake Campground, about 40 miles north of Newport, to party in the remote area.
Pend Oreille County Sheriff Alan Botzheim says a little after midnight Sunday, dispatched received reports of a stabbing and possible shots fired.
Through its investigation, Botzheim says the sheriff's office learned somebody backed into a vehicle belonging to 22-year-old Steven Devine. Authorities say Devine became angry and pulled out a gun.
Hill’s sister says she was told from people at the campsite Devine was threatening people and her brother Richard intervened and stabbed him.
Authorities say Devine shot Hill. Botzheim says the friends of both men rushed them off the mountain in separate vehicle to meet up with emergency crews.
Authorities say both died before medics could help them.
The sheriff says his heart and prayers go out to both families.
Hill’s sister says her family sends their condolences to Devine’s family.
