Lewiston police name two people who died in murder-suicide Sunday evening

Pullman, WALocal News

The Lewiston Police Department has identified Melissa Hammond, 46, and Eugene Grende, 54, as the victims of a murder-suicide incident that occurred Sunday evening in Lewiston Orchards. Hammond was discovered with multiple gunshot wounds at a home on 11th Street, while Grende was found with a self-inflicted gunshot wound and later died at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. According to police, Grende had a dispute with residents of the home that led to him shooting Hammond multiple times before taking his own life. Investigators clarified that this incident was not related to domestic violence but rather a conflict between acquaintances.

The local community is mourning the loss, highlighting the need for discussions around mental health and conflict resolution. Such incidents can have lasting impacts on neighborhoods, igniting conversations about safety and preventive measures. Authorities are expected to increase community outreach efforts to address these concerns. As investigations continue, the police aim to provide clarity on the events leading up to this tragic incident.

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.