Authorities suspect foul play after discovering large pools of blood at the couple’s Washington state home on November 13.
Timothy Burke, a 45-year-old from Olympia, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder and kidnapping in connection to the disappearance of Karen Koep, 63, and her husband, 68-year-old Davido Lacey
According to court documents released recently, the blood, along with evidence of attempted cleanup, hinted at a grim scenario. Investigators believe Koep and Davido were possibly shot before being placed in the trunk of their car, which was found abandoned in Olympia. Despite the discovery of blood trails and shell casings, their bodies remain missing.
Timothy Burke, who had been a tenant at the couple’s property, faced impending eviction. Pauline Dutton, Koep’s sister, highlighted emails exchanged between Burke and Davido, suggesting Timothy Burke’s knowledge of the eviction and his deteriorating mental state. Allegedly, Timothy Burke harbored delusions, including the belief that Davido was contaminating the property’s water.
Dutton disclosed that neighbors reported hearing shotgun fire three days before the couple’s official disappearance
The community gathered for a vigil, remembering Koep’s contributions as a beloved chiropractor. Their two sons are grappling with the loss of both parents. Video evidence showing Timothy Burke using the couple’s credit cards post-disappearance initially led to his arrest for identity theft. Despite his release due to insufficient cause, subsequent investigations linked shell casings found in Koep’s abandoned car to a firearm registered to Timothy Burke.
The tragic episode has left a void in the community, with tributes pouring in for Koep’s selfless contributions. Dutton emphasized her sister’s altruism, believing Karen continues to watch over them as one of God’s “top angels.”
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