Linn County Sheriff Dave Burright is seeking assistance from the public to identify the body of a man found in the Mt. Washington Wilderness Area, five miles south of Big Lake in eastern Linn County.
The deceased was found by a surveyor working in the area for the U.S. Forest Service on Aug. 24.
The deceased is believed to be a white male between 50 and 60 years old with mild scoliosis. The man was approximately 5’5″ to 5’7″ tall with a shoe size of seven.
Investigators found “Vasque” brand hiking boots and a man’s Seiko watch next to the body. He had three gold crowns as well as other dental work and some facial hair. The deceased was wearing Levi 501 jeans, size 36/30. In the area were a dress belt, wool socks, down coat, rain poncho, wool gloves, wool Balaclava, long-sleeved cotton button-up shirt, “Lowe” brand internal frame backpack and two aluminum fuel bottles.
The deceased had set up a campsite. Found within the camping area was a blue tent without a floor, sleeping bag and sleeping pad. Additionally, more than $6,000 in chase was found in the camp as well as food items that would not require cooking.
There were no items of identification on or near the body. Investigators were unable to find any stove, matches or lighters. The campsite was approximately 100 yards of the Pacific Crest Trail at 5,000 feet and not near any water source. Two small ponds, Washington Ponds, are located about one mile away.
It appears the deceased may have died of exposure in his tent within the past six months. The deceased may not have had a great deal of experience in wilderness travel but did have adequate supplies for several days in inclement weather. No climbing equipment was located in the area, and there have been no knives or firearms located near the body.
Investigators with the Linn County Sheriff’s Office are seeking information from the public that might assist in identifying this person. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Detective Division and speak with Detective Randy Voight or Detective Dave Opel at (541) 967-3950.