Bodies found in pickup near Chiwaukum Creek Rock Quarry

The Chelan County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the discovery of two bodies in a truck off U.S. Highway 2 between Leavenworth and Lake Wenatchee. The bodies were found in a pickup adjacent to a campsite near mile post 90 off U.S. Highway 2, according to a CCSO news release. 

On May 23, just after noon time, a caller reported seeing a full sized pickup truck in a heavily brushed area near the Chiwaukum Rock Quarry. The person reporting the truck did not approach the vehicle to determine if anyone was inside. 

A deputy arrived, and with the assistance of the person that reported the truck, approached the vehicle. The deputy noticed immediately that someone had apparently attempted to conceal the truck using a blanket, duct tape and natural vegetation. 

When they were able to see inside the truck, it was discovered there were two deceased persons in the driver’s seat and passenger seat. At that point, assistance came from the Chelan County Sheriff’s Detective Unit as well as the Chelan County Coroner’s Office. 

The scene was processed. The vehicle and deceased were secured. The news release states they are not actively pursuing any suspects, nor do they believe there is a risk to public safety, related to this incident. 

The Coroner and CCSO is working to identify the bodies and notify next of kin. On May 24, autopsies were performed on both bodies. The autopsy did not reveal any trauma or fatal injuries. 

The Deputy Coroner said further tests and analysis need to be completed to determine a cause of death. That could take up to 10 weeks. Positive identification of the deceased could take two weeks or more. 

Ian Dunn can be reached at 548-5286 or editor@leavenworthecho.com.