Beaverton, Ore. — A somber investigation unfolds in Beaverton, Oregon, after a father and his teenage daughter were discovered deceased in their apartment, prompting authorities to probe a tragic incident of murder-suicide. The Washington County Sheriff’s Department confirmed the deaths occurred Wednesday morning at the Baseline Woods Apartment complex, where officers were initially dispatched for a welfare check following concerns from individuals unable to contact the residents.
Authorities identified the deceased as 45-year-old Nicholas Alexander, an employee of the Oregon Department of Corrections, and his 16-year-old daughter. According to the investigation, Alexander fatally shot his daughter before ending his own life. The distressing details emerged as deputies accessed their apartment just before 10 a.m., uncovering the grim scene.
The community, characterized by a friendly and peaceful atmosphere with prevalent family activities, expressed shock and grief over the violence in such a quiet setting. A neighbor, reflecting on the nature of the locality which is bustling with children and families particularly during the summer, found the events hard to reconcile with the area’s usual tranquil vibe.
This unsettling incident marks a sudden and painful loss for the Century High School community, where the teenager attended. School officials, addressing the heartbreak, conveyed their condolences through a letter to families, penned by Principal Julie Kasper. Highlighting the unexpected nature of the student’s demise, the letter outlined the ongoing investigation and the limited details available at the moment.
Moreover, adding to Alexander’s recent interactions with law enforcement, records show that he was arrested on charges of driving under the influence very early Monday morning. The sheriff’s office, while continuing their investigation into the deaths, suggested that the medical examiner would officially determine the specific causes of death for both individuals.
As the community and the school grapple with this tragedy, the sheriff’s office has urged anyone with relevant information to step forward to assist with the ongoing investigation. Their hope is that additional details will provide clarity and aid in understanding the circumstances leading to this devastating event, offering some semblance of closure to all affected.