Following recent developments in a tragic case that has gripped the local community, a Washington County grand jury has formally indicted 38-year-old Jose Lucas Morfin Jr. on several charges related to the death of 64-year-old Mary McDowell. The indictment, which took place last Friday, includes charges of manslaughter in the first degree and assault in the second degree, among others. The Washington County Sheriff's Office revealed that they are actively seeking additional information from the public to assist in the ongoing investigation.
Amid the legal proceedings, Mary McDowell's family issued a heartfelt plea for public assistance. "As a family, we are deeply saddened by the circumstances surrounding the death of our beloved Mary Longway McDowell. Mary was a sweet, kind, caring soul with a delightful giggle who spent her entire life serving and caring for others," they conveyed in a statement via the Washington County Sheriff's Office. They urge anyone with possible details that could be helpful, however insignificant they might seem, to contact law enforcement. The family also requests restraint in public discussion to avoid hurtful speculation during their time of grief.
McDowell was found unresponsive by deputies from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office on the morning of December 13 near a house on SW Edy Road. Despite immediate response by paramedics, she was declared deceased at the scene. Her partner, Morfin Jr., was detained during the initial stages of the investigation. Detectives from the Violent Crimes Unit and the Major Crimes Team are deeply invested in uncovering the full story behind McDowell's death.
Morfin Jr. reported primarily using his middle name, Lucas and was arrested following initial findings at the crime scene. These findings prompted charges such as assault in the second degree and unlawful use of a weapon. The Washington County Sheriff's Office has shared photos of Morfin Jr. and McDowell, hoping to generate additional leads. As the Sheriff's Office explained, the release of Morfin Jr.'s booking photo aims to possibly identify further criminal activity and aid the case's progress. As the case unfolds, community members are encouraged to contact Washington County Non-Emergency Dispatch at 503-629-0111 with any pertinent information.
