Man Burns Mother's Body In Backyard Fire Pit, Police Say

BEAVERTON, OR — A Beaverton man who reportedly admitted to burning the body of his dead mother was arrested by police Monday, according to Beaverton police spokesman Officer Bryan Dalton.

Matthew Martin Gutierrez, 24, was lodged at the Washington County Jail on charges of abuse of a corpse, Dalton said. His bail is set at $25,000.

Around 3:30 p.m. July 17, Beaverton police conducted a welfare check at 11525 S.W. 11th St., the home of 57-year-old Katherine McDowell. While there, police spoke with McDowell's daughter Chantel Gutierrez, who called for the welfare check, and McDowell's son, Matthew.

During his interview, Matthew reportedly told officers that he'd "burned his mother's body in a backyard fire pit," Dalton said. "Officers checked the fire pit and saw what were believed to be bones."

Matthew was subsequently arrested and charged, Dalton said, adding that Matthew "hasn't said much since his arrest."

On Tuesday, after serving a search warrant for the premises, police confirmed finding what are believed to be McDowell's remains in the pit.

Witnesses reportedly told Beaverton police that McDowell was seen alive on Sunday, Dalton said.

This post will be updated when more information is available.

Photo Courtesy: Washington County Sheriff's Office