OLYMPIA, WA – Authorities in Washington state suspect two corpses discovered on a military base may be the remains of a missing couple in Thurston County. They express their belief that the bodies could be those of Davido, 68, and Karen Koep, 62, who disappeared in early November. Thurston County Sheriff’s Office issued a press release stating their assumption based on their initial investigation. Based on their findings, they believe that they located Davido and Karen Koep.
The Koeps were last seen alive on November 10, and a well-being check initiated by deputies at their residence on November 13 suggested possible foul play. According to subsequent press releases from the sheriff’s office, there was evidence pointing towards a fatal attack at the couple’s home.
An arrest was made last month involving a man in his 40s from Olympia, reported to be an acquaintance of the couple. The individual, who rented a home from the couple, was charged with first-degree murder and kidnapping. Prosecutors believe the motive behind the killings stemmed from a potential eviction.
Although the bodies remain unidentified officially, Sheriff Derek Sanders stated that investigators are reasonably certain that the remains belong to the couple. The coroner is currently performing examinations to confirm the identities and ascertain the cause of death.
The remains were discovered following a 911 call reporting a body on the property of Joint Base Lewis-McChord on Saturday morning. The first discovery led to the location of the second corpse. According to court records, the suspect resided near to the military base where the bodies were found only a short distance from his residence.
Sheriff Sanders emphasized the team’s dedication to delivering justice for the victims’ loved ones and those affected by their loss. “We are hopeful this is one step in the right direction for the families and friends of Karen and Davido and everyone who was impacted by them.”
The couple’s son, Justice Dutton, expressed his gratitude to the police involved in the case for their tireless efforts in locating his parents.