USA News: Missing Thurston County Couple Possibly Found Deceased

In a somber turn of events, authorities in Washington state have stumbled upon two bodies on a military base, strongly suspecting them to be Davido, 68, and Karen Koep, 62, a local couple missing since November. The Thurston County Sheriff’s Office, leading the investigation, expressed their belief in a press release on Saturday, stating, “Sadly, we believe Davido and Karen Koep have been located based on the preliminary investigation.”

The couple was last seen alive on Nov. 10, and subsequent welfare checks at their residence on Nov. 13 raised concerns of a potential attack. A suspect, an Olympian man in his 40s known to the Koeps, was arrested last month and charged with first-degree murder and kidnapping. Allegedly motivated by eviction fears from a property he rented from the victims, the suspect now faces grave charges.

While the bodies have not been conclusively identified, Sheriff Derek Sanders indicates a high level of certainty. The coroner’s office is actively working on confirming identities and determining the cause of death. The discovery unfolded after a 911 call reporting a body on Joint Base Lewis-McChord’s property, where authorities subsequently located two bodies. The suspect resided in close proximity to the military base, and the remains were found within a short distance from his residence.

During a press conference, Sheriff Sanders conveyed hope for closure, acknowledging the dedication of law enforcement and expressing gratitude for the family’s understanding during this challenging time. As the investigation unfolds, the community awaits further details surrounding this heartbreaking crime.