UPDATE: June 5 at 7:18 a.m.
The Benton County Sheriff’s Office has identified the man found in the Columbia River near Mound Pond on May 24, 2025, as Gregory L. Vanhooser, a 40-year-old with ties to Missouri.
Lieutenant Mike Clark stated that Vanhooser was known to be homeless and often stayed at the Union Gospel Mission in Pasco. He was last seen around March 20, 2025, possibly searching for work in a Burbank-area orchard.
An autopsy conducted on May 29, 2025, found no evidence of homicide. Further microscopic testing is underway to determine the cause of death.
Detectives from Benton County have reached Vanhooser’s next of kin in Missouri. The investigation remains ongoing.
Authorities urge anyone with information about Vanhooser’s last known whereabouts to contact Detective Tomren at 509-735-6555 ext. 7204 or Sgt. Gonzalez at 509-735-6555 ext. 7205.
UPDATE: June 2 at 11:21 a.m.
Benton County Deputies are working to identify the man found in the Columbia River near Mound Pond on May 24. The man, found in work attire, had been in the river for several days.
The Benton County Sheriff’s Office is collaborating with the Benton County Coroner’s Office to determine the cause of death. An autopsy was conducted on May 29, but the cause remains undetermined pending further tests.
Authorities urge anyone with information to contact Detective Tomren at 509-735-6555 ext. 7204 or Deputy Sgt. Gonzalez at 509-735-6555 ext. 7205.
Original coverage: May 29 at 7:13 p.m.
BENTON COUNTY, Wash. – Benton County sheriff’s deputies are investigating a body found in the Columbia River this week.
The exact location of the body was not disclosed, but it was discovered by kayakers, according to the sheriff’s office.
Benton County Coroner Bill Leach said an autopsy is planned for Friday, May 30.
