Derek Spencer Obituary, Placer County CA: 44-Year-Old Dies After Fatal Shootout With Deputies
Derek Spencer, 44, died early Monday morning after a lengthy law-enforcement search in the Iowa Hill area of Placer County, California. Authorities said Spencer was fatally shot by Placer County sheriff’s deputies following an hours-long confrontation in rugged, heavily wooded terrain south of Colfax.
The incident began Sunday morning after deputies received reports of a man pointing a firearm at people in the Placer County area. Authorities later said Spencer rammed a sheriff’s patrol vehicle with a stolen vehicle and fled. Investigators also connected him to the theft of a vehicle and firearms in El Dorado County.
Key Details
Detail Information
Name Derek Spencer
Age 44
Location Placer County, California
Area of Manhunt Iowa Hill, south of Colfax
Incident Armed manhunt and standoff
Woman Found Dead Cheryl Macy, 76
Search Began Sunday, September 20, 2026
Fatal Confrontation Early Monday, September 21, 2026
Law Enforcement Placer County Sheriff’s Office and assisting agencies
Outcome Spencer was fatally shot by deputies
Investigation Ongoing
During the search, deputies discovered 76-year-old Cheryl Macy dead inside a home where investigators believe Spencer had been before fleeing into the surrounding forest. Authorities believe Spencer killed Macy, and the sheriff’s office said investigators do not believe the two knew each other.
Authorities later located Spencer with assistance from a California Highway Patrol aircraft using infrared technology. Tactical teams moved toward his position shortly before 2:30 a.m. Monday. Deputies said Spencer fired several shots, leading to a standoff that continued for hours.
During the confrontation, drone footage reportedly showed Spencer starting two fires. Around 4 a.m., authorities said he fired toward deputies again from behind a berm. Deputies returned fire, fatally striking him. No deputies were reported injured.
The circumstances surrounding the broader sequence of events remain under investigation. Funeral or memorial arrangements for Spencer were not available in the verified reports reviewed.
