Police in Washington state have arrested two suspects in connection to the murder of a man who was found buried in a shallow grave. The victim, a 39-year-old Yelm resident, had been reported missing for several days before his body was discovered. The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to be released soon.
Police in Yelm, Washington, have arrested two suspects in connection to the murder of a man who was found buried in a shallow grave.
The victim, 39-year-old Anthony Thomas, had been reported missing by his family on January 10th. An extensive search was conducted, and his body was eventually discovered in a shallow grave on January 14th.
Horrific Murder in Yelm: Man Found Buried in Shallow Grave
An autopsy conducted by the Pierce County Medical Examiner's Office determined that Thomas had died of multiple gunshot wounds to the head.
On January 15th, police arrested two suspects in connection to the murder. The suspects, 25-year-old Matthew Timothy Paulson and 28-year-old Sarah Jean Lambert, were taken into custody without incident.
Horrific Murder in Yelm: Man Found Buried in Shallow Grave
Paulson and Lambert are currently being held at the Pierce County Jail. They have both been charged with first-degree murder.
The investigation into Thomas' murder is ongoing. Police are still working to determine the motive for the crime and identify any additional suspects.
Horrific Murder in Yelm: Man Found Buried in Shallow Grave
"This was a senseless and tragic crime," said Yelm Police Chief Todd Stancil. "We are committed to seeking justice for Anthony Thomas and his family."
Thomas' family is devastated by his death. They have released a statement thanking the police for their hard work and expressing their hope that the suspects will be held accountable.
Horrific Murder in Yelm: Man Found Buried in Shallow Grave
"Anthony was a kind and loving person," said his sister, Jessica Thomas. "He will be deeply missed by all who knew him."
The Yelm community is also mourning Thomas' death. A vigil was held on January 16th to remember him and show support for his family.
"This is a close-knit community," said Yelm Mayor Jim Rainier. "We are all shocked and saddened by this terrible tragedy."
The investigation into Thomas' murder is ongoing. Police are asking anyone with information about the crime to contact the Yelm Police Department.
