THE DALLES, Ore. – Authorities have officially identified He Meihong, a Montana resident affectionately known as “Kiki,” as the young woman whose body was discovered on July 29 inside a storage container located within an abandoned U-Haul unit in The Dalles. A person of interest, identified as James Allen, is currently in custody in Colorado on unrelated charges and awaits extradition to Oregon for questioning in connection with her death.
The Dalles Police Department (TDPD) confirmed the identification following an autopsy conducted by the Clackamas County Medical Examiner’s Office. While the exact cause of death has not been released, officials have stated that the circumstances surrounding her death are “highly suspicious.”
Discovery of the Body
The gruesome discovery was made after a storage facility employee reported a foul odor emanating from a U-Haul unit that had been left abandoned for several weeks. Upon inspection, authorities found a sealed storage container inside the truck containing human remains. The discovery has shocked the community, drawing widespread attention across Oregon and beyond.
Person of Interest in Custody
Investigators have identified James Allen as a person of interest, who is currently being held in Colorado. Law enforcement officials are now working to have Allen extradited to Oregon for questioning regarding Kiki’s death. Authorities have stated that Allen was known to the victim and may have been traveling with her in the weeks prior to the discovery.
TDPD Chief of Police issued a statement expressing condolences to Kiki’s family:
“This is a deeply tragic case, and our hearts go out to the loved ones of He Meihong during this unimaginably difficult time. Our investigators have worked tirelessly to identify her and to pursue justice on her behalf. We are committed to ensuring that those responsible for this crime are held accountable.”
Ongoing Investigation
The Dalles Police Department is collaborating with multiple agencies, including the Oregon State Police, the Clackamas County Medical Examiner’s Office, and Colorado authorities. Detectives are focusing on Kiki’s last known whereabouts in Montana and her connection to Oregon in the weeks leading up to her death.
Officials are urging anyone with information related to He Meihong’s activities, acquaintances, or travel between Montana and Oregon to contact TDPD’s tip line at 541-296-2613.
Community Response
News of the victim’s identification has prompted an outpouring of grief on social media, with friends describing Kiki as a “bright, kind, and adventurous young woman” whose life was cut short in a horrific manner. A memorial vigil is being planned in her hometown in Montana.
As the investigation continues, authorities remain confident that James Allen’s extradition will bring them closer to answers in this disturbing case.
This is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
Leave a Reply