SPRAGUE, WA – A 26-year-old woman who disappeared after demanding to exit her family’s vehicle on a state highway was found dead in a residential backyard days later, prompting a death investigation by Lincoln County authorities.
Aspen Valdez’s body was discovered Tuesday by a homeowner in Sprague, Washington, who immediately contacted 911, according to KPQ reports. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office has launched an investigation into her death.
Valdez was last seen alive on February 26 along State Route 23 in Sprague, when she insisted on leaving her family’s car during a trip from St. John to Yakima. Family members were traveling to Yakima when Valdez demanded to get out of the vehicle, stating she wanted to go to Spokane instead.
Authorities have not released details about the cause of Valdez’s death or whether investigators suspect foul play in the case. The circumstances surrounding her disappearance between February 26 and the discovery of her body on Tuesday remain unclear.
The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is seeking assistance from the public in gathering evidence related to Valdez’s disappearance and death. Investigators are specifically requesting any security camera footage that may be relevant to the case.
Anyone who has security footage or information regarding Valdez’s disappearance is urged to contact the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office at 509-725-3501. The investigation remains active as authorities work to determine the circumstances of her death.
