SPOKANE, Wash. — Two young boys witnessed the fatal shooting of their mother inside their North Spokane home on Sunday, according to court documents, in a tragedy that has left a family grieving and a community in shock.
The incident occurred on North Hawthorne Road near Rowan Avenue, not far from Ridge View Elementary School.
According to a probable cause affidavit, Rachel Ballinger’s two sons, ages 9 and 14, were inside the home when an argument broke out between their mother and their stepfather, Josiah Ballinger.
Investigators say the dispute escalated into violence, with one of the boys allegedly witnessing Josiah Ballinger pull out a handgun and shoot Rachel Ballinger. Court documents state that after the shooting, Ballinger stepped over Rachel’s body and left the residence.
The two boys immediately fled the home and sought help from neighbors before calling 911. During the emergency call, they reported that they had seen their stepfather leave the scene in a Jeep.
A police officer who was already in the area reportedly spotted a vehicle matching the description provided by the children and conducted a traffic stop shortly afterward. Authorities said a handgun was recovered from inside the vehicle.
Josiah Ballinger was taken into custody and later booked into jail on a charge of second-degree murder.
During a court appearance on Monday, a crime victim advocate read a statement on behalf of Rachel Ballinger’s family, describing her as a loving person who brought happiness to those around her.
“She brought joy, laughter, and love to everyone around her. Most importantly, two boys have lost their mother,” the statement said. “Our family will carry the pain of this loss for the rest of our lives.”
Family members and supporters were present in court as prosecutors outlined the allegations against Ballinger.
The judge set Ballinger’s bond at $1 million. He is scheduled to return to court on Thursday to enter a plea.
The investigation remains ongoing.
As with all criminal proceedings, the charge against Josiah Ballinger is an allegation, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
