CORNELIUS, OR – A sense of disbelief has enveloped the tight-knit community of Cornelius following the tragic discovery of a mother and her three young children found dead in their home. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths, which have left residents in shock and mourning.
The bodies of the 37-year-old woman and her children, aged two, five, and seven, were found in a building adjacent to their home. Authorities have not yet released the names of the victims, but they are working diligently to piece together what led to this heartbreaking incident.
Neighbors, who often saw the children playing and the mother taking them to school, are grappling with the loss of a family that, while not well-known due to language barriers, was a visible part of the community’s daily rhythm. The older two children attended Cornelius Elementary School, adding to the community’s sense of loss.
The investigation is being treated as a potential homicide, and the Violent Crimes Unit is assisting. A 911 call around 3 p.m. on the day of the discovery alerted deputies to the scene. Investigators are working to determine the events leading up to the deaths, but they have assured the public that there is no ongoing threat.
Community members are left to process the tragedy, which has altered the fabric of their neighborhood. Many express a profound sadness for the loss of a family that, despite limited direct interaction, was a familiar presence.
Authorities have described the incident as isolated, and they continue to seek information from anyone who might have insights into what happened. They urge those with knowledge to contact the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.
As the investigation unfolds, the community remains focused on supporting one another through this difficult time, hoping for answers that might bring some measure of closure.