FEMALE SEVERALLY BEATEN SUCCUMBS TO INJURIES
On Friday, July 10, 2020, members of the Klamath Falls Police Department responded to a structure fire at 112 Wendling Street. Officers were told an elderly female lives at that address.
Upon arrival, officers observed heavy smoke coming from the residence at 112 Wendling St. Officers located the occupant of the house, 69-year-old Joan Pittennger, outside near a detached garage. The female had been severally beaten and had a weak pulse. The female was transported to Sky Lakes Medical Center, and due to the severity of her injuries she was flown to another area hospital where she later died.
Over the course of a subsequent criminal investigation, officers determined the fire at the residence had been intentionally set. Officer developed probable cause for the arrest of 39-year-old, James Marshall Johnson. James Johnson fled the area and at this time his location is unknown.
The incident is still under investigation. If you have information regarding this incident, or the location of James Johnson, please contact the Klamath Falls Police Department at 541-883-5336, or call the anonymous tip line at 541-883-5334.
Photo Is From 2007
James Marshall Johnson 39 -years-old
Murder / Arson I / Assault IV / Menacing
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Update: Suspect is in custody. He was arrested at the Klamath Falls Walmart July 11th.
