The bodies of four women found in wooded areas in northwest Oregon earlier this year are now believed to be linked, according to prosecutors. Initially, police did not see a connection between the cases, but investigators have since determined that there are links between the deaths of Kristin Smith, Charity Perry, Bridget Webster, and Ashley Real. While the cause and manner of death for these women have not been determined by the state medical examiner, at least one person of interest has been identified.
The Multnomah County District Attorney’s office in Portland stated that investigators from multiple law enforcement agencies have been working together on this case. They have interviewed multiple individuals and have identified a person of interest who is linked to all four deaths. However, no charges have been filed at this time, and authorities have assured the community that they are not currently in any danger.
Local media reports suggest that a 38-year-old man with an extensive criminal history is the person of interest, but it remains unclear how he is connected to the cases. While online speculation of a serial killer has emerged, officials have not used those terms to describe the situation.
The women’s bodies were discovered in Portland and rural areas between February and May. The first body, that of Kristin Smith, was found in a wooded area southeast of Portland. Smith had been reported missing in December 2022. The other victims include Charity Perry, whose body was found near a state park alongside the Columbia River, Bridget Webster, whose body was found near Mill Creek in Polk County, and Ashley Real, whose body was discovered in a forest southeast of Portland.
A collaborative effort among law enforcement agencies, including multiple prosecutor’s offices and the Oregon State Police, has been ongoing to investigate these cases. The investigation aims to bring clarity and closure to the loved ones of the victims and ensure justice is served.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information related to these cases to come forward.
