An Oregon man stands accused of manslaughter in connection with the death of his partner, Mary McDowell, whose lifeless body was discovered in a car along a rural road. The incident unfolded in Sherwood, Ore., where 64-year-old McDowell was found deceased by Washington County sheriff’s deputies on December 13. Responding to a call about an “unresponsive” woman, law enforcement officials made the grim discovery, prompting the arrest of McDowell’s partner, 38-year-old Jose Lucas Morfin, Jr., at the scene.
Subsequent to the tragic event, Morfin was indicted on December 20 on charges that include manslaughter, assault, abuse of a corpse, and weapons-related offenses. The accused has entered a plea of not guilty to all allegations, as reported by the Statesman Journal. In a poignant statement issued through the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, McDowell’s grieving family fondly remembered her as a compassionate individual, particularly dedicated to providing care and comfort to those in their final stages of life. McDowell’s selfless service extended to numerous family members, including her late husband, and the residents of her mother’s memory care facility.
Describing her as a “sweet, kind, caring soul with a delightful giggle,” McDowell’s family beseeched the public to come forward with any information or encounters involving McDowell and Morfin to aid in the ongoing investigation. Expressing their gratitude for the support, McDowell’s family emphasized her lifelong commitment to serving and nurturing others.
During a court appearance on December 16, Morfin appealed to his family members to not be swayed by misinformation, passionately asserting his efforts to resuscitate McDowell. Addressing someone he identified as his “sister-in-law,” Morfin professed his deep love for McDowell and his sincere intentions during the distressing incident.
As the legal proceedings progress, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding McDowell’s untimely death. Efforts to uncover the truth persist, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the quest for justice.
For individuals facing domestic violence or seeking assistance, the National Domestic Violence Hotline offers vital support. Accessible 24/7 in over 170 languages, individuals can reach out for confidential help by calling 1-800-799-7233 or visiting thehotline.org. The hotline stands as a crucial resource for those in need, providing guidance and aid in times of crisis.
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