Power Outages and Major Crime Report in Skagit County
In a night filled with both natural disruptions and tragic events, Skagit County reported a triple homicide that has left the community in shock and a suspect still on the run. As the county dealt with a few power outages, the major story of the night emerged from a rural area where three people were discovered dead in what initially appeared to be a house fire.
However, investigators later confirmed that these deaths were the result of gunshots, leading to a manhunt for the suspected killer.
Victims Identified; Suspect Connected to the Family
The victims, who were initially believed to have perished in a fire, were later confirmed to have been shot before the fire began. The suspect, 49-year-old Jason Berman, has been identified as the husband of one of the victims, Aaron Berman, and the stepfather of another victim, 19-year-old Taylor Dawson.
The third victim, Jillian Van Boven, was Dawson’s girlfriend and was visiting the home on the day of the tragedy. This horrific event has shocked the community, especially given the close relationship between the suspect and the victims.
Heartbreaking Details from Victims’ Families
In the wake of the tragedy, the father of Jillian Van Boven, one of the victims, spoke out about his daughter’s untimely death. Van Boven, a young woman with a bright future, had just graduated from high school at 18 and was passionate about nature and philosophy.
Her father, Matthew Van Boven, shared his grief, recalling the last words he exchanged with his daughter. He expressed pride in her accomplishments and her optimistic outlook on life. The tragic loss has left him and many others in disbelief, struggling to come to terms with the reality of the situation.
Search for the Suspect
Authorities are actively searching for Jason Berman, who is believed to have fled the scene in his blue 1994 Chevy truck. The manhunt extends across Skagit County and into neighboring Whatcom County, where Berman is known to spend time.
Law enforcement is urging the community to remain vigilant and report any sightings of Berman or his vehicle. His picture and details about the car have been circulated in an effort to enlist public assistance in locating the suspect.
Community Response and Law Enforcement Efforts
The community has been shaken by the news of this violent crime, and law enforcement agencies are working around the clock to apprehend the suspect. As the investigation continues, the police have requested that anyone with information about Berman’s whereabouts come forward. The authorities are emphasizing the importance of public cooperation in bringing this dangerous individual to justice.
Conclusion
As the Skagit County community grapples with the aftermath of this triple homicide, the search for Jason Berman intensifies. The loss of three lives, particularly that of a young woman just starting her adult life, has left a profound impact on those who knew the victims.
The investigation remains ongoing, with law enforcement focusing their efforts on locating the suspect and ensuring that he is brought to justice. The community’s support and vigilance will be crucial in the coming days as authorities continue their search.
