
A forensic odontologist made the comparison, and the subject was positively identified as Pierre Pearson
The Cowlitz County Coroner’s Office has confirmed the identity of a man whose body was recovered from the Columbia River near Woodland two years ago.

On June 2, 2022, two fishermen on the Columbia River located a deceased subject near Martin’s Bar in Woodland. The body was recovered by deputies and detectives from the Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office. The body appeared to be that of an adult male, and there was no identification located. An examination of the body by the Cowlitz County Coroner’s Office showed no signs of trauma. Due to the level of decomposition, facial identification and fingerprints were not available.
In December of 2022, detectives began working with Othram, a private DNA lab that specializes in advanced forensic DNA testing. Using Forensic-Grade Genome Sequencing® and genetic genealogy, they were able to identify potential family members for the unidentified subject. Detectives were able to work with the Othram genealogist and family members to construct a family tree and identify a possible match.
After contacting the subject’s stepmother and father, dental records were obtained for the subject by the Cowlitz County Coroner’s Office. A forensic odontologist made the comparison, and the subject was positively identified as Pierre Pearson.
Pearson was originally from Georgia and had been identified as being transient in Portland prior to his death. He last contacted family in April of 2021. Pearson was 34 years old when his body was found. There is no indication that Pearson died as a result of a crime and the investigation will be closed.
The Coroner’s Office will work with the family to turn over Pearson’s remains.
Information provided by the Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office.
Also read:
- Court rules against Save Vancouver Streets A judge has ruled against Save Vancouver Streets in its legal effort to place a street-use initiative on the ballot. The group is considering whether to appeal.
- July Sparkles at RedDoor GalleryRedDoor Gallery in Camas kicks off July with a vibrant artist reception on July 11, plus special events including Hot Art & Cool Prices, an ice cream social, and a community mural project.
- Battle Ground HealthCare appoints new executive directorNancy Strebe will take over as executive director of Battle Ground HealthCare on July 28. She brings leadership experience and a commitment to healthcare access for underserved residents.
- Deceased person found in Lake River near Ridgefield MarinaA man was found deceased in Lake River near the Ridgefield Marina on July 4. No signs of foul play were observed. A nearby sailboat, believed to be linked to the man, is also under investigation.
- County seeks nominations for local businesses, individuals for Disability Employment Awareness AwardsClark County is seeking nominations for awards honoring inclusive employment efforts. Winners will be recognized Oct. 8 at Clark College during a public event.
- WA watches CA as fed Title IX deadline looms; SCOTUS to hear trans athlete casesWashington state officials are monitoring California’s response to a federal Title IX deadline as tensions rise over transgender athletes in girls’ sports. Superintendent Chris Reykdal says the state won’t comply, risking $137 million in federal funding.
- Trump signs ‘big, beautiful bill’ during White House July 4 celebrationPresident Trump signed the “big, beautiful bill” on July 4 during a White House event featuring a military flyover and Republican leaders.