LAPWAI, Idaho — A woman is dead and a man remains hospitalized after a shooting Friday evening in Lapwai, according to the Nez Perce County Sheriff’s Office. The incident has led to the arrest of 30-year-old Christian Forslof, who is facing charges of second-degree murder and attempted second-degree murder.
Deputies say the shooting was reported at approximately 5:24 p.m. on September 5 in the 1100 block of Thunder Hill Road, where a caller alleged that two individuals—a man and a woman—had been on the property and may have broken into a shed. While officers were en route, the caller informed dispatchers that her fiancé had shot both individuals.
A Nez Perce Tribal Police officer was first to arrive on scene and immediately detained Forslof without incident. Shortly afterward, deputies and emergency medics discovered the victims suffering from gunshot wounds to their upper bodies.
The female victim was pronounced dead at the scene, while the male victim was transported by ambulance to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center for treatment of serious injuries. His current condition has not been released. The identities of both victims are being withheld pending notification of their families.
What Led to the Shooting
Investigators said Forslof believed the pair had unlawfully entered a shed on his property. After the individuals left, he allegedly followed them approximately a quarter-mile away from his residence, where he confronted them and attempted to detain them at gunpoint.
Authorities confirmed that neither victim was armed at the time of the confrontation. According to the Sheriff’s Office, the altercation escalated into a verbal dispute, during which Forslof fired multiple shots after the female victim allegedly pointed her finger at him and advanced.
Suspect in Custody
Forslof was arrested at the scene and later booked into the Nez Perce County Adult Detention Center. He is being held on charges of second-degree murder and attempted second-degree murder.
Ongoing Investigation
The Nez Perce County Sheriff’s Office and Nez Perce Tribal Police continue to investigate the case. Detectives are working to piece together the sequence of events that led to the fatal encounter and determine whether additional charges may be filed.
“This is an active and ongoing investigation,” the Sheriff’s Office said in a press release. “We encourage anyone who may have information relevant to this case to come forward.”
Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact Lt. Jason Leavitt or Detective Wendy King at 208-799-3130.
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