OLYMPIA, Wash. – The Thurston County Sheriff’s Office in Washington state has made a grim announcement regarding the disappearance of 62-year-old chiropractor Karen Koep and her 68-year-old husband, known only as Davido. Detectives believe the couple is dead, and they have arrested a man in his 40s who was acquainted with the missing victims. The suspect is now facing charges of first-degree murder and first-degree kidnapping.
Deputies initiated a welfare check on Monday after Karen Koep failed to show up for work. Upon arrival at their residence in the Lake Forest Development area, law enforcement discovered that the couple was missing, and the circumstances surrounding their disappearance appeared suspicious. The couple’s vehicle, a gray Toyota Yaris hatchback, was later found about six miles from their home. Authorities have since requested information from anyone who may have seen the vehicle over the weekend.
As the investigation unfolds, police have been tight-lipped about the details surrounding the case in order to preserve its integrity. The motive for the alleged killings remains unclear at this time. However, patients of Karen Koep describe her as a beloved chiropractor who was deeply caring and went above and beyond for her clients. She was known for fighting for her patients and was highly respected among her community.
Karen Koep’s sister, Pauline Dutton, suggested that the couple may have been taken advantage of by someone they had helped in the past. Davido, who had a criminal history of drug trafficking but had worked to turn his life around, was known for giving people second chances. Dutton expressed concern that these acts of kindness could have been exploited by those who hadn’t fully reformed.
Authorities are urging anyone with information pertaining to this case to come forward and contact the Thurston County Sheriff’s Office. Karen Koep is described as 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighing 115 pounds, while Davido was 6 feet tall and weighed 180 pounds.
As investigators continue their efforts, the community remains eager for answers in this disturbing case. Precise details surrounding the alleged killings and the circumstances leading up to them have yet to be revealed.