Body found in clearing in north Spokane County

The body of an apparent homicide victim was found Monday in a remote section of north Spokane County.

A man driving a four-wheeler on East Laurel Road spotted the corpse lying in a clearing early Monday afternoon and called authorities, said Sheriff’s Sgt. Jeff Tower. The area is roughly 25 miles northeast of downtown Spokane.

The victim’s name had not been released Monday night, but Tower said he is believed to be a local resident. Blood stains were found around the body. Tower said there were obvious signs of trauma.

“It’s pretty evident we’re dealing with a homicide,” he said, standing about 150 feet from the remains of the man.

As Tower spoke, other detectives and the department’s forensics team sketched the area and took photographs of the body. They treaded lightly, avoiding stepping on any possible tire tracks or other evidence near the victim, who was found fully clothed and lying face down next to a small clump of spruce trees.

Tower said it was too early to tell when the man was killed. The man’s clothing and skin appeared to be largely intact.

“It hasn’t been weeks or any significant amount of time,” Tower said early Monday evening.

The forensics team rushed to gather as much evidence as possible before nightfall. The area would be guarded overnight for more investigation today, Tower said. An autopsy is also planned for today. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call (509) 242-TIPS.