3 found dead after fire were homicide victims

SPOKANE, Wash. (AP) — Investigators say three people found dead after a house fire north of Spokane this week were the victims of homicide, and the fire appears to have been set to cover up the crime.

The Spokane County Sheriff's Office said Thursday the suspect or suspects may have discarded evidence in fleeing the scene, and officials want nearby residents or business owners to keep an eye out for clues or suspicious activity, such as unauthorized trash bin usage.

The fire was reported early Tuesday morning at a rural home near Deer Park, north of Spokane. Firefighters eventually found three bodies at the property.

The identities of the victims have not been released.