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Woman Formerly with Placer County DA’s Office Killed in Iowa Hill Manhunt
By Drooid · · How we work
Fatal Shooting During Iowa Hill Manhunt
Police in Placer County fatally shot Derek Spencer, a 44-year-old man, after an hours-long manhunt in the small community of Iowa Hill. Spencer was the target of the search after he shot and killed Cheryl Macy, a former employee of the Placer County District Attorney’s Office. Macy had worked for the DA’s office from 2006 until 2020; officials did not specify her exact role at the time of her death. The incident occurred a day after Macy’s birthday.
Background on Derek Spencer and Prior Arrests
In the weeks leading up to the manhunt, Spencer was arrested three times in Sacramento County. He was initially taken into custody by Folsom police on burglary charges, and a judge later released him on his own recognizance. Community members expressed frustration that Spencer had been released multiple times before the fatal encounter.
Official Response from the District Attorney’s Office
The Placer County District Attorney’s Office issued a statement describing Macy as a valued colleague, friend, and cherished member of the DA family. The office called her loss “devastating” to both the office and the broader community, extended condolences to her family, and asked for privacy for those grieving.
Impact and Community Reaction
Neighbors in Iowa Hill, many of whom have lived in the area for decades, voiced sorrow and anger over the killing. One long-time resident noted that many locals feel upset that Spencer was released from jail repeatedly before the tragedy. The shooting has heightened concerns about public safety and the handling of pre-arraignment releases in the region.