Multiple Dead Bodies Found in Trunk of Abandoned Vehicle, Man Arrested

Washington police have taken a 28-year-old man into custody after discovering a vehicle containing the remains of multiple bodies.

The Adams County Sheriff's office arrested Mauricio Nava-Garibay after finding the abandoned vehicle on the outskirts of the city of Othello in eastern Washington at 6.30 a.m. on Thursday.

Deputies responded to reports of a suspicious vehicle in the 2200 block of Charla Road in the Edison Tracks region of the city, according to a press release from the Sheriff's Office.

The vehicle, a white SUV, appeared to have blood on its hood, according to the person reporting it.

Upon discovering a deceased person inside the vehicle, authorities secured the scene and contacted the Washington State Crime Lab.

A search of the vehicle revealed the "possible remains of other human deceased subjects" in the vehicle's trunk. Authorities said that the victims' bodies were in poor condition, making identification initially impossible.

"Investigations like these are very tasking and delicate," the statement read. "Once properly identified, family will be notified prior to any other outlet."

Nava-Garibay has been booked into the Adams County Jail on suspicion of first-degree murder and potential other charges.

Upon arresting Nava-Garibay, the Adams County Sheriff's Office put out a second statement via its Facebook page saying the investigation was still ongoing.

"We remind all to please be mindful of the situation and all those involved. The investigation continues, updates will continue as appropriate," it read, adding: "Many details will not be presented on social media due to the nature of the case."

Othello, located approximately 100 miles southwest of Spokane and 180 miles east of Seattle, is resident to an estimated 8,386 people.

It is known for its proximity to a number of National Parks, offering hiking, fishing, biking and wildlife viewing opportunities.

The crime rate for 2018 was 109.13 per 100,000 population, down 30.95 percent from the previous year.

The Adams County Sheriff's Office is cooperating in the ongoing investigation with a number of agencies including the Othello Police Department, Grant County Sheriff's Office, Washington State Patrol, Washington State Patrol Crime Lab Response Team, and the Moses Lake Police Department.

Anyone with information that may be relevant to the case should contact the sheriff's office.