Name of Victim in Salem-Area Death Investigation Released

Police hope to hear from anyone who might have information.

64-year old Leonard David Payton was found dead March 4th, and police are hoping someone can provide information that can help determine if his death was a homicide. Photo: Salem Police

(SALEM, Ore.) - Oregon State Police say an investigation into the death of a previously unidentified man located by firefighters on March 4th 2008, has led to the release of his name. 64-year old Leonard David Payton was a transient with no address, according to records.

His remains were discovered by Salem Fire crews responding to a reported brush fire near the Interstate 5 northbound onramp from Mission Street in Salem that morning at about 2:20 AM. Police say they have not determined if his death was the result of a homicide.

Oregon State Police Spokesman Gregg Hastings says an autopsy previously done by the State Medical Examiner's Office was inconclusive and failed to determine a manner of death.

Oregon State Police detectives, working in cooperation with the Marion County District Attorney's Office, Salem Police Department, Marion County Medical Examiner, and the State Medical Examiner's Office, have been investigating.

Anyone with information to assist with this case is asked to call Detective Josh Brooks at (503) 934-0349.

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