Redmond, OR – Authorities have confirmed the identity of a man whose body was found near Pelton Dam in Jefferson County last week. The victim has been identified as 43-year-old James W. Herrera of Redmond. Law enforcement officials have classified the case as a homicide and believe the fatal incident occurred in neighboring Deschutes County.
Investigators stated that Herrera’s body was discovered by a passerby in a remote area near the dam. The location, which is known for its rugged terrain and limited public access, prompted immediate concerns about foul play. Once authorities arrived at the scene, they quickly secured the area and launched an investigation to determine how the victim ended up there.
Officials revealed that evidence collected from the scene suggested that the crime itself likely took place outside Jefferson County. Preliminary findings indicate that Herrera may have been killed in Deschutes County before his body was transported and left near the dam. Detectives from both counties are now working together to trace Herrera’s final movements in the days leading up to his death.
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the death is being treated as a homicide, though specific details regarding the manner of death have not yet been released to the public. Authorities noted that releasing further information could jeopardize the ongoing investigation. However, they assured residents that law enforcement agencies are pursuing several promising leads.
Residents in Redmond and surrounding communities have expressed concern following the discovery. The case has drawn significant attention because of the unusual circumstances and the fact that the victim was a longtime resident of the area. Community members have described the situation as unsettling, especially given the uncertainty about where the crime occurred and who might be responsible.
Authorities emphasized that they are working closely with the Oregon State Police and local detectives to reconstruct the timeline of events. This includes examining surveillance footage, interviewing individuals who may have seen Herrera in recent days, and analyzing forensic evidence. Officials believe that piecing together the victim’s last known interactions will be critical to identifying suspects.
Family members of Herrera have been notified, though they have requested privacy as they cope with their loss. Investigators acknowledged the difficulty of the situation for the victim’s relatives, stressing that providing answers to them remains a top priority. Support services have been made available to assist the family during the ongoing investigation.
Law enforcement agencies have also reached out to the public for assistance. Detectives are asking anyone with information about Herrera’s whereabouts prior to his death, or who may have witnessed unusual activity in the area near Pelton Dam, to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously, and authorities have urged community members to help ensure that justice is served.
While no arrests have been made so far, investigators remain confident that progress is being made in the case. Officials continue to process evidence and follow up on leads, reiterating that the investigation is active and evolving. They also reassured the public that there is no immediate threat to safety in Jefferson or Deschutes counties.
The discovery has cast a shadow over the Redmond community, where residents are grappling with the violent nature of the crime. As the investigation unfolds, authorities hope to shed more light on the circumstances surrounding Herrera’s death and ultimately hold those responsible accountable. For now, the case remains under intensive review, with detectives committed to uncovering the truth behind the homicide.
