Slaying suspect returns for trial

A gang member arrested near Compton, Calif., for the January shooting death of a rival is back in Spokane. Edward L. “TD” Thomas, 25, will remain incarcerated on a probation hold and $600,000 bond after appearing in Superior Court Wednesday via video from the Spokane County Jail, where he was booked just after 9 p.m. Tuesday. Described by police as a member of a Compton, Calif.-based gang, Thomas was arrested Sept. 9 in Los Angeles on Spokane County warrants charging him with first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder for the Jan. 17 shooting death of John S. Williams. Police say Thomas shot Williams in the face outside a birthday party for a reputed gang member at 5405 N. Crestline St. He’s also accused of trying to kill Williams’ son during the shooting.