Authorities in Washington state have made a grim discovery on a military base, believing they have found the bodies of a local couple who had been missing for over a month. Davido and Karen Koep, aged 68 and 62 respectively, were last seen alive on November 10. The Thurston County Sheriff’s Office stated that a welfare check at the couple’s home on November 13 revealed evidence of an attack and possible murder. A suspect, described as an Olympian man in his 40s and known to the couple, was arrested last month and charged with first-degree murder and first-degree kidnapping. According to prosecutors, the suspect had rented a home from the couple and allegedly killed them out of fear of eviction.
Although the bodies have not been officially identified as the Koeps, Sheriff Derek Sanders expressed confidence that they belong to the missing couple. The coroner’s office is currently working to confirm their identities and determine the cause of death. The remains were discovered after authorities received a 911 call reporting a body on Joint Base Lewis-McChord’s property. The first body was found, followed by the discovery of a second body in close proximity. The suspect lived near the military base, and the bodies were found less than half a mile away from his residence. However, there was no attempt to conceal the remains.
During a press conference, Sheriff Sanders expressed hope that this discovery would provide some closure to the families and friends of Davido and Karen Koep. Their son, Justice Dutton, expressed gratitude towards law enforcement for their unwavering dedication in finding his parents. He also stated his faith in the Thurston County Prosecuting Attorneys to bring the responsible person(s) to justice.
The investigation into this tragic case continues, with authorities focused on gathering evidence and building a strong case against the suspect. As the community mourns the loss of the Koeps, they are hopeful that justice will be served for this heinous crime.
