Suspect in Custody After Committing Multiple Armed Robberies

Spokane Police arrested Justin McDowell, 45, on November 7, 2025, after linking him to two armed robberies within a week. The first incident occurred at a marijuana retail store on South Lewis Street, where a man in a Halloween mask threatened an employee with a shotgun and stole cash. Investigators utilized video evidence to identify a suspect vehicle, leading to McDowell's identification. Just hours before his arrest, a second robbery took place at a gaming store on East Holland Avenue, showcasing similar characteristics as the first. Law enforcement partners from the Spokane and Kalispel Tribes assisted in the investigation, which included multiple witness interviews.

Evidence from McDowell's location at the time of his arrest corroborated his involvement in both crimes. He faces two counts of 1st Degree Robbery and is currently held on a $50,000 bond. The series of robberies raises concerns about safety in local retail environments.