
The Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the deceased as Joanna K. Speaks, 32, of Oregon
A homicide case out of Clark County has been transferred to the jurisdiction of the Portland Police Bureau.
On April 8, 2023, the Ridgefield Police Department responded to the 8000 block of South 5th Street in Ridgefield, Washington on a report of a death. At the request of Ridgefield Police, the Clark County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit (MCU), assisted by the Vancouver Police Major Crimes Unit, responded to investigate. The Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the deceased as Joanna K. Speaks, 32, of Oregon.
Based on information developed in that investigation, there is reason to believe that the homicide happened in Portland. No arrests have been made.
This is an active homicide investigation, and the Portland Police Bureau is asking for information from the public. If anyone has information about this case, please contact Detective Jeff Pontius at Jeffery.Pontius@police.portlandoregon.gov or (503) 823-0433, or Detective Steve Gandy at Stephen.Gandy@police.portlandoregon.gov or (503) 823-0449 and reference case number 23-804445.
This homicide brings the total number of homicides in Portland this year to 68.
Previously released information from Clark County Sheriff’s office is available here: https://flashalert.net/id/ClarkSheriff/162771
Information provided by Portland Police Bureau.
Also read:
- State basketball quarterfinals: Columbia River Rapids keep dream alive, advance to final fourColumbia River defeated Pullman in the Class 2A state tournament quarterfinals in Yakima to reach the semifinals, while four other Clark County teams fell in their respective state quarterfinal games.
- POLL: Who should have the primary say in decisions about a student’s gender identity at school?Clark County Today is asking readers who should have the primary role in decisions about a student’s gender identity at school.
- Opinion: Study shows 2025’s record tax increases reduce Washington’s GDP growth and worker payTodd Myers writes that a new economic analysis projects Washington’s 2025 tax increases will slow GDP growth and reduce wages over the next several years.
- City of Washougal advances overcrossing design for 32nd St Rail Crossing ProjectWashougal officials have selected an overcrossing design for the 32nd Street Rail Crossing Project, aiming to improve safety and reduce traffic delays caused by frequent train blockages.
- Letter: Facts aren’t politicalBrian Kendall writes that disagreements about the LEOFF 1 pension debate should begin with accurate facts rather than misinformation.
- Opinion: Trails, roadways and crosswalksDoug Dahl explains how Washington law treats hiking trails that cross roadways and whether pedestrians automatically have the right-of-way.
- Business Profile: Joyful Honey and Beekeeping Supplies making a difference for pollinatorsJoy Bochsler’s Battle Ground shop offers honey, equipment, and classes while helping educate the community about protecting pollinators.








