A person of interest related to this investigation is in custody on unrelated charges

On Monday (Aug. 21), deputies with the Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) were conducting a follow-up investigation related to a missing person case where an adult male had been reported as missing for several weeks. Deputies went to the last known residence of the missing person in the area of NW Sluman Road and NW Overlook Drive in Hazel Dell. 

While at the residence, a vehicle that appeared to have recently been involved in a vehicle fire was seen on the property. Deputies contacted the CCSO Major Crimes Unit (MCU) based on their observations while on-scene, and a search warrant was later obtained for the property.

While searching the property, detectives identified what appeared to be human remains inside the burned vehicle. The property was secured overnight, and arrangements were made for additional investigative resources to assist with scene processing.

On Tuesday (Aug. 22), MCU detectives were able to process the vehicle and associated residence with assistance from the Washington State Patrol Crime Scene Response Team, a Special Agent/Certified Fire Investigator from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Portland Field Office, fire personnel from Clark County Fire District 6, and investigators from the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. 

This is an active homicide investigation, so no names are being released at this time.

Information provided by Clark County Sheriff’s Office.