Major Crimes Detectives and the Spokane County Medical Examiner’s Office have not been able to positively identify the person and ask for the public’s help.
On August 11, 2022, at approximately 5:00 pm., a paddle boarder reported finding what appeared to be human remains submerged, in the Spokane River, downstream (northwest) of W. Rifle Club Road.
The Spokane County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team recovered the remains the following day.
The remains are believed to have been in the water for several months, hindering typical attempts to confirm identity. Investigators are releasing the attached depictions of tattoos and pictures of two wristbands worn by the decedent to the public, hoping someone may recognize them and provide information that could help with identification.
Tattoo-Upper Left Arm/Shoulder: a woman’s face and what appears to be a sombrero-style hat below and to the right.
Tattoo-Inner Right Arm: writing with other art.
Wrist Band-1: “Honey Kissing”
Wrist Band-2: “SOLDER OF SOBRIETY” and “COOL CATS”.
Anyone that recognizes these tattoos or wristbands and could provide information that would help identify this person is asked to call Detective N. Bohanek at 509-477-3223, reference #10104844.
Information Released on August 12, 2022:
On August 11, 2022, at approximately 5:00 pm., a paddle boarder reported finding what appeared to be human remains submerged, in the Spokane River, downstream (northwest) of W. Rifle Club Road.
Several agencies initially responded, but ultimately, members of the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team and Major Crimes Detectives responded.
Due to the conditions, remote access, and nightfall, efforts were suspended for the evening, and the scene was secured. Divers and Detectives returned this morning to continue the investigation.
An update will be provided as soon as possible, when appropriate.
NOTE: There is no known vehicle in the river related to this incident.