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The Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed the tragic conclusion to the search for a California man who went missing from a hotel in Kelso, Washington earlier this month. The body of 38-year-old James Wilson from San Diego was recovered from the Coweeman River on May 19th, over two weeks after he was last seen.
Wilson had been visiting the area on a work trip and was staying at the Kelso Inn. According to hotel staff, he failed to check out on May 3rd as scheduled. His rental car remained parked at the hotel, and his personal belongings were undisturbed in his room, prompting concerns for his well-being.
Search Efforts and Discovery
The Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office launched a missing person investigation shortly after Wilson’s scheduled departure.
We initially treated this as a vulnerable missing person case,
said Sheriff Brian Barnes in a statement.
Mr. Wilson’s family reported no recent signs of distress, and his disappearance seemed out of character.
Search teams scoured the area around the hotel and nearby trails, utilizing dog teams and aerial support. On May 19th, a volunteer searcher made the grim discovery of a body in the Coweeman River, approximately three miles downstream from the hotel.
We’re deeply saddened by this tragic outcome,
Barnes said.
Our thoughts go out to Mr. Wilson’s loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.
Unanswered Questions and Investigation
While the body has been positively identified as James Wilson, the circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear. Authorities have not ruled out foul play but stated there were no immediate signs of trauma.
An autopsy is scheduled to determine the cause of death. Investigators are also reviewing any available surveillance footage and retracing Wilson’s last known movements for potential clues.
The Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office has urged the public to come forward with any information that could aid the ongoing investigation.
Community Grieves, Awaits Answers
News of Wilson’s tragic demise has sent shockwaves through the small community of Kelso. Local residents have expressed their condolences and frustration over the unanswered questions surrounding the case.
It’s just heartbreaking,
said Kelso resident Sarah Thompson.
I can’t imagine what his family must be going through, not knowing what happened to their loved one.
As the investigation continues, the Kelso community remains vigilant, hopeful that the circumstances leading to Wilson’s death will be uncovered and that his family can find some sense of closure.
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