Public asked to help find body of James Ehrgott

After an unsuccessful two-day search, the Spokane Police Department is seeking the public’s help in locating the body of James Ehrgott.

Detectives believe that 73-year-old Ehrgott, who has not been seen since July 7, was shot and killed by John Wayne Thomson somewhere near Spokane.

Thomson is under arrest in Southern California on charges connected to the deaths of a Western Washington woman and a Southern California man.

Detectives have learned from interviews with Thomson that Ehrgott’s body was dumped near a bridge, said Spokane police spokesman Cpl. Tom Lee.

“It’s possible the body was dumped outside of Spokane County. It’s possible it’s in Idaho,” Lee said.

Thomson told detectives that he left Spokane with Ehrgott early on the morning of July 8th and drove for one to two hours in an unknown direction. Thomson had only lived in Spokane a few weeks and didn’t know what roads he traveled or in what direction.

Thomson described driving on a two-lane paved road and pulling over after crossing a very short concrete bridge. It was at this location where Thomson said he shot Ehrgott and left him, Lee said.

Citizens are asked to check areas around short concrete bridges for anything unusual. Farmers and ranchers are also asked to check their property if possible.

Due to the time delay and heat, the body is expected to be severely decomposed, Lee said. Citizens may only find clothing and bones.

Citizens finding anything suspicious are asked to not disturb the area and to call 911.