Lapwai man claims self-defense in shooting of Lewiston woman

Pullman, WALocal News

A $1 million bond has been set for Christian M. Forslof, 30, who faces second-degree murder and attempted second-degree murder charges following a shooting that left Krystal L. Medlin dead and Kelvin M. Jones injured. The shooting occurred near Forslof's home in Lapwai on Friday evening, and he claims he acted in self-defense after the two victims allegedly trespassed on his property.

Jones, the surviving victim, described Forslof as the aggressor, contradicting Forslof's account. Forslof was arraigned via video conference and will face a preliminary hearing on September 17, where the court will examine the evidence and testimonies. The maximum penalty for the murder charge is life imprisonment, with the attempted murder charge carrying a maximum of 25 years. Forslof's actions followed an altercation where he confronted Medlin and Jones after they allegedly attempted to enter his property. Investigators continue to gather evidence as conflicting accounts emerge regarding the events leading up to the shooting.

The case highlights ongoing discussions around self-defense laws and property rights in Idaho.

Related Articles

Meetings

Local government meetings are scheduled throughout the week in Whitman and Latah counties, including sessions for city councils and planning commissions. Key meetings include the Whitman County Commissioners on Monday and the Moscow Urban Renewal Agency on Thursday. These gatherings provide residents opportunities to engage with local governance.

Berney to retire as counseling point man

Mike Berney, Executive Director of Palouse River Counseling, will retire in December after over 30 years of service, paving the way for Clinical Director Kathleen Stewardson to assume his role. Under Berney's leadership, the organization expanded significantly, enhancing mental health services across Whitman County. Berney expressed optimism for the future of behavioral health in the community.

Fire is not the enemy

Volunteers in north central Idaho conducted a controlled burn near Viola to reduce wildfire risks and enhance ecological health. Led by Heather Heward, the team emphasized the importance of fire as a tool for land management, likening it to medicine for wildlands. Participants included university students and local forestry professionals learning to adapt to fire’s role in the ecosystem.