Detectives have identified the victim whose partial remains were found in the Tualatin River near Rood Bridge Park. A kayaker discovered the remains on August 8, with more found downstream the next day. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the remains belong to 34-year-old Ezequiel Avila-Ruiz, who was known to camp in the area. His identity was confirmed through a DNA comparison with relatives, with assistance from the Oregon State Police Crime Lab.
After he was last seen on July 31 near SE Baseline Street and South First Avenue in Hillsboro around 5:40 p.m., authorities believe Avila-Ruiz was the victim of a homicide. His remains were later found about one mile apart. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office announced their findings on Thursday. The investigation is ongoing to determine what happened to Avila-Ruiz after his disappearance.
In August, search teams including marine units, K9s, and a dive team, with help from the Clackamas and Columbia County Sheriff’s Offices, searched the Tualatin River after a discovery was made and recovered another body part the following day. Investigators have not released further details, and the Medical Examiner’s Office will determine the cause and manner of death. Anyone with information is asked to contact detectives at (503) 846-2500 and reference case number 50-25-11037. The family has requested privacy during this time, as stated by the Washington County.
