Police Say Man Was Arrested After Digging Grave

The man was held at gunpoint by a homeowner who discovered him digging the man sized hole.

The possible grave site and suspect are identified below Photos from Washington County Sheriff's Office

(PORTLAND, Ore.) - Washington County Sheriff's Detectives are seeking information in a case where a man was discovered digging what appears to be a grave.

Sgt. David Thompson with the Washington County Sheriff's Office says the man was arrested for trespassing, and detectives need to determine if anyone associated with him is missing or will be in danger if he is released from custody.

Washington County patrol deputies responded to a 911 call on January 10th in a rural area of northwest Washington County on a report that a man was caught digging a grave. The caller said he was holding a man at gunpoint after finding him digging a hole.

Thompson says the 911 caller wanted deputies to respond and take custody of the suspect, identified as 63-year old Ronald Karel. The caller was the caretaker of the property.

Upon arrival, deputies learned that the caretaker found Karel behind a gate on private property, Thompson said.

"Karel's vehicle was stuck behind the gate. The citizen held Karel at gunpoint until deputies responded."

Further investigation revealed that Karel had been digging a hole. Thompson says experienced detectives believe it could be a grave site.

"It measures six feet long, three feet deep, and it varies between two and a half and three feet wide. Karel offered no logical explanation for the excavation."

Karel told deputies that he was looking for evidence of Mount St. Helens ash. He was arrested for Criminal Trespass II and Criminal Mischief III. He remained in custody as of Thursday morning.

Thompson says the Washington County Major Crimes Team has joined in the effort to determine if anyone close to Karel has been harmed by Karel or may be in danger if he is released.

"They have contacted family members, business associates, and other known associates. At this point they have been unable to locate any deceased victims. If anyone has specific information regarding the possible purpose for Karel's excavation, we ask them to contact Washington County Sheriff's Detectives at (503)846-2500."

You can visit their Website at: washington.or.us/sheriff

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