Owner of burning house suspect in man’s death

ELMA — Officials investigating the death of a man whose body was found outside a burning home in Elma say they are searching for the homeowner, who is now a homicide suspect.

Grays Harbor County officials said they consider Jacob Eveland, 37, armed and dangerous and said he could be headed to Central Oregon.

The Grays Harbor County Sheriff’s Office responded Tuesday night to a shots-fired call in Elma. When they arrived, they said they found a house engulfed in flames and the man’s body.

The deceased is a 47-year-old man, who had been occupying the home with other acquaintances, authorities said. The victim reportedly was assaulted with an edged weapon and a firearm.

Police describe Eveland as a white male, 6 foot 1 inch tall, 220 pounds with blue eyes and brown hair. He may be driving a gold Chevrolet Silverado that was reported stolen in Thurston County. Officials say a pistol was inside the truck when it was stolen.

Eveland was released from jail last week related to an alleged domestic violence incident involving his girlfriend.

Anyone who sees the truck or Eveland is asked to call Detective Sgt. Brad Johansson at 360-533-7448. Police say people should not attempt to confront the suspect.