Fund, Web Site Created In Trail Killing

A slain Coeur d’Alene man’s family has set up a reward fund for anyone who comes forward with information leading to the arrest and conviction of the killer.

A hiker discovered 43-year-old Joe Murphy’s body shortly after 5 p.m.

April 26 at the Mineral Ridge Scenic Area. He had been stabbed to death only yards from the parking lot on a popular hiking trail.

“We haven’t asked for money, but lots of people have been donating,” said his sister, Jeanine Murphy. She said an account has been set up at the First Security Bank in downtown Coeur d’Alene, but donations can be made in Joe Murphy’s name at any First Security branch.

If no one is convicted, Jeanine Murphy said, the donated money will be used to create a memorial for her brother at Mineral Ridge.

In addition, friends have set up a Web site at www.joemurphy.org. People who might be fearful of going to the police can send tips via e-mail, said family friend Maggie Pike.

“Any little brush they saw, they can (post it) on the Web site,” Pike said. The suspect needs to be caught, she said, not just for the peace of mind of the family but also for the community. “People are afraid to go there for a walk,” she said. “It totally victimizes the community.”

Kootenai County Sheriff’s officials are still sorting through dozens of tips. No arrests have been made.

A composite sketch of a man seen hanging around the area was released last week. He was described as about 30 to 40 years old, 5-foot-10 inches tall and weighing about 230 pounds, with dark hair, a mustache and wire-rimmed glasses.

“Mineral Ridge was so symbolic of freedom with the eagles,” Pike said. “It shouldn’t happen anywhere, let alone on Mineral Ridge.”

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call the Kootenai County sheriff’s office at 664-1511.