Woman found dead off Beach Drive was murdered, SPD says

(Scroll down for tonight’s newest info)

(Monday photo by WSB co-publisher Patrick Sand)
2:32 PM: Three days after a woman was found dead in the water off Beach Drive, near Cormorant Cove Park – as covered here extensively on MondaySeattle Police finally have announced that it’s being investigated as a murder case.

We have checked daily since then, and until this afternoon, they would only characterize it as a “death investigation.” But now, here’s what police are saying:

Seattle Police are asking the public for assistance in an active homicide investigation. On March 12th at approximately 7:30 a.m. a citizen reported seeing a body floating in Puget Sound approximately 30 feet off-shore of the 3800 block of Beach Drive SW. Officers and detectives responded to the scene and have since determined that the deceased, a 51-year-old female from Kent, was murdered.

Homicide detectives believe the victim (photo right) parked her car in the 4400 block of Beach Drive SW on Sunday night, March 11th. The victim had planned to take a walk along the beach but was found deceased just offshore the next morning. The suspect(s) remain at large.

If you have information about this incident or if you saw any suspicious activity, vehicles or persons in the area on the evening of Sunday, March 11th, please call 911 or the Seattle Police Homicide Tip Line at (206) 233-5000. Anonymous tips are welcome. You can also call Crime Stoppers of Puget Sound at 1-800-222-TIPS.

Police say the cause of death will have to be released by the Medical Examiner, which also will be the source for her name; we have heard a name from a source but will not publish it until we have confirmed it with the Medical Examiner. Police also have released this photo of her car, a 2010 Buick Lacrosse, which appears to have been photographed across from Me-Kwa-Mooks, a few blocks south of where her body was found:

Police added this to their report on SPD Blotter:

The Seattle Police would like to remind everyone to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings anytime you are outdoors and especially in the hours of darkness. This remains an active and ongoing homicide investigation.

This is the second murder of the year in West Seattle; the first was a deadly shooting next to Morgan Junction Park in January (a suspect is jailed and awaiting another hearing next month).

3:20 PM UPDATE: The Medical Examiner identifies the victim as Greggette Guy but says final word on how she died is “pending.”

ADDED 5:35 PM: For those not familiar with the Beach Drive area, here’s a Google Map showing the spots where Ms. Guy’s body was found and where her car was found:


View Beach Drive locations in a larger map

One commenter wondered if flyers would be distributed in the area, to reach those who don’t see news reports about this (citywide organizations have picked it up now); we have heard from two police sources that flyers are indeed planned. (Let us know if you see any – we don’t know the timetable, but have already taken one drive through the area to look.)

6:29 PM UPDATE: We just received a scan of the flyer from Richard Worthington of Seattle Real Estate Associates (WSB sponsor):

He says police are indeed canvassing the area to ask if anyone saw anything or anybody out of the ordinary.

161 Replies to "Woman found dead off Beach Drive was murdered, SPD says"

  • higgins March 15, 2012 (2:52 pm)

    Bad news, to say the least.

  • DTK March 15, 2012 (2:52 pm)

    You won’t publish her name but a nice color photo is okay? I hope the next of kin have been notified.

    • WSB March 15, 2012 (3:04 pm)

      I don’t have her name from an official source. The photo comes from police, who published it on their website: http://spdblotter.seattle.gov/2012/03/15/seattle-police-ask-for-public-assistance-in-homicide/
      .
      and if police release a photo seeking help in a murder investigation, yes, we are going to publish it. It’s unusual for them to release a photo but not a name or cause of death, but they indicated that it will be part of the Medical Examiner’s daily report shortly. – TR

  • Angela March 15, 2012 (3:16 pm)

    This is very scary. I just had decided to make this my running route as I felt safe in the neighborhood setting. :( So sorry for the family!

  • eak! March 15, 2012 (3:19 pm)

    wasnt there an attempted attack around that area or towards Alki a few weeks ago. I wonder if it could be the same perp?

  • The Shadow March 15, 2012 (3:22 pm)

    This is really scary, since we live close to that park. Since the park isn’t visible from the street, kids have been known to hang out there and drink. I wonder if she ran across some unsavory activity (drug dealing?). Any word on cause of death?

  • PhotoBug714 March 15, 2012 (3:23 pm)

    Thank you WSB for updating you guys have been very good at reporting this and keeping up with the updates even when there was none. I knew her and I am so sad, my heart goes out to her family.

    DTK her name is irrelevant when it comes to looking for people who SAW her or her car, hence the photos to hopefully aid in the case. Not that it matters but her family has been notified.

    Please if anyone saw her or her car even if you dont think the information is relevant please contact them and tell them it may help them piece together anything to help :(

    • WSB March 15, 2012 (3:28 pm)

      PhotoBug – as just added to the story, the Medical Examiner has just identified her as Greggette Guy (someone had mentioned that name in a phone call to us day before yesterday but as per our rules, we waited to use it until police and/or the ME had announced the ID). Our condolences to Ms. Guy’s family, friends, and co-workers. We do not pursue interviews with grieving people but do want to say that if there is anything more that anyone wants to be sure is included in the reporting, including any more info about Ms. Guy herself, we can be reached at 206-293-6302 or editor@westseattleblog.com any time of the day or night.
      .
      That stretch of Beach Drive is such a well-traveled place, it’s hard to imagine someone wouldn’t have seen something, so here’s hoping helpful tips emerge soon … TR

  • Rhonda Porter March 15, 2012 (3:24 pm)

    Sad, heartbreaking and very scary.

  • PhotoBug714 March 15, 2012 (3:36 pm)

    Thank you WSB you have handled this with the utmost respect for the news, the victim and family. She was a amazing woman her and I worked together in Girl Scouts as volunteers. She was just that kinda of Mom, Woman and person.

  • norsk girl March 15, 2012 (3:37 pm)

    This is shocking, sad, and scary.
    Prayers (and somehow) peace to her family and friends.

  • westseattledood March 15, 2012 (3:38 pm)

    I hope people with *any* kind of visual observations from Sunday or hearing *any* sounds around Sunday evening go to the police immediately.

    My condolences to her friends and family.

  • sc March 15, 2012 (3:38 pm)

    Many years ago there was a young woman shot and killed while sitting with her boy friend on a park bench below the road at Me-Kwa-Mooks. I seem to recall it was a gang initiation and I think it happened at night also.

  • curious March 15, 2012 (3:49 pm)

    Thank you for the update. Very disturbing.

  • Thugbee March 15, 2012 (3:58 pm)

    So sad and scary. Any idea what time of night this was (about)? Early evening? After midnight?

  • Alki Resident March 15, 2012 (3:58 pm)

    @SC-I remember that young girl and her bf’s murder like it was yesterday.She had a young child at the time.I remember them every time we drive past Me-Kwa-Mooks.
    Im wondering if Greggette,perhaps saw something taking place and this murderer did what he did.Someone needs to put up fliers because not everyone reads the blog or Herald.
    My first thought also was the guy who recently attacked a female by the restaurants also.

  • Jessica D March 15, 2012 (3:59 pm)

    MY CONDOLENCES to the Guy family :( So very sad!!

    I am in total awe that this happened on this side of the beach. I live smack dab in the middle of where her car was parked and where she was found in the water. I walk my dog at night, ALL the time!! I guess I won’t be doing that anymore. How scary!! I hope there isn’t a serial killer on the loose. i hope there are no ties to the Morgan St. killing.
    I am always so amazed when i think I am paying attention to all my surroundings and miss something this BIG!! It really freaks me out. Well neighbors, let’s really put the block watch to use

  • Jessica D March 15, 2012 (4:00 pm)

    I walked the same route Sunday night!!!! WHOA!!!!

  • Mn March 15, 2012 (4:02 pm)

    Senseless
    So sick of scum bags in our midst

  • Alki Resident March 15, 2012 (4:07 pm)

    Jessica D- the Morgan street killer sits in jail.
    I was just thinking,isn’t there some homeless people living in the woods right there at the park(Me-Kwa-Mooks?

  • beachdriver March 15, 2012 (4:12 pm)

    My condolences to her family and friends, so sorry for your loss.
    I live in the neighborhood, and I really wish the cops would have asked Monday rather than waiting until today to ask if anyone saw anything suspicious. 4 days is a long time to try and remember details of what you saw or heard in a neighborhood where random people walk by every day.

  • Gracey March 15, 2012 (4:17 pm)

    So very sad to hear about the news of my Aunt Greggette. She was a very loving and devoted wife and mother and will be greatly missed. Family has all been notified of this tragedy and are meeting in Seattle to be with my uncle and cousin. We are very touched and appreciative of the condolences. We pray that people living in that area stay safe and exercise caution. If anyone knows anything or saw anything suspicious at all, please inform the police!

  • quiz March 15, 2012 (4:22 pm)

    terrible. terrible. terrible.

  • I. Ponder March 15, 2012 (4:33 pm)

    I’d hesitate to think homeless people are the perpetrators or a likely threat. I believe (opinion) most murders are committed by someone known to the victim. I ride my bike and walk down there at night and have never had as much as an unsavory encounter.

    I hope this terrible crime can be solved quickly.

    I appreciate WSB’s coverage and professionalism. They actually set a standard that should be emulated by all media.

  • Tracey March 15, 2012 (4:33 pm)

    That is so scary. Do they mention specifically what time of night she was there? I have looked at a couple of different briefings and don’t see that, only that she was known to be there the night of the 11th and then found the next day on the 12th. I’m thinking that if they at least give an estimation of the timeframe when she arrived that it might help jog someone’s memory as to whether they remember anything odd.

  • foo March 15, 2012 (4:36 pm)

    How likely is it that the killer will be found? I’m guessing it’s extremely unlikely?

  • dc March 15, 2012 (4:47 pm)

    Did her body float to that location with the tides I wonder? Or was she walking by that dark garage and got pulled in? Also will be interesting to find out if she was sexually assaulted just to know what type of evil entity we are dealing with. I mean no disrespect to people who knew and loved her only a quest to catch a killer. This is very, very sad and wrong. I am also wondering about early reports of the attack on Alki and a possible connection.

  • Nate Grey March 15, 2012 (4:51 pm)

    This is horrible and not acceptable!

    Single women: it’s really not safe to walk around/run after dark. Carry Mace! Go with a friend! Start a meetup group! I remember the 1993 murder as I was living on Beach Drive (lighthouse) at the time.

    I hope we continue to get updates on why she was murdered. That DOL pic is awful. Poor lady. I DO recall seeing that Buick parked there as well. It’s a popular rental car and I only noticed it bc there’s a white one just like it parked in front of my building & car daily. We are all saddened and sick over this news.

  • Lo siento March 15, 2012 (5:12 pm)

    Sad and scary.

  • bsmomma March 15, 2012 (5:23 pm)

    So sad, scary and devistating. Lots of Love and prayers for all that knew her. I hope justice will be served ASAP! Speaking of dark garages, we have a run down, doors busted sary garage in our alley. The house is just as scary. Who can I report this to? There’s always drug baggies and other related things outbthere as well.

  • Tbone March 15, 2012 (5:25 pm)

    So utterly heartbreaking. What a lovely exuberant smile she had in that picture – So sad to think there are murderers among us… Condolences to her family and friends. I hope the fine women and men at SPD catch whoever did this…

  • WTF March 15, 2012 (5:26 pm)

    This incenses me. I lived across the street from where she was found. I walked Beach Dr. every day/night without fear. I will, as always remain vigilant, but I REFUSE to let some AH make me afraid. May not be random?

    Prayers to her family, friends and co-workers. Swift justice to the murdering POS; I hold out hope they will be caught.

  • JoAnne March 15, 2012 (5:48 pm)

    Sympathy and deepest condolences to the family.
    I cannot even imagine the grief of having such a horrific and senseless thing happen to a loved one.
    Shocked, horrified, and disturbed.

  • The Shadow March 15, 2012 (5:54 pm)

    There are some odd aspects to this case. The high tide was about 8pm Sunday night, and a fairly high one as well (12ft). It is possible that Ms. Guy was killed at Mee-Kwa-Mooks and thrown in the water. When the tide is that high, it’s right up against the bulkhead and the stairs. The outgoing tide would’ve carried her body north.

    What is a little odd is why she was there in the first place. As I recall, the weather wasn’t very good that night; it was pretty blowy. If she’s from Kent, why go to that rather obscure little park for a walk? For surfwatching and just walking, Charles Ritchey viewpoint up at the lighthouse is much better and more popular.

    I sure hope SPD is able to crack this case; it’s awfully spooky to have this happen so close to home.

  • angelescrest March 15, 2012 (5:58 pm)

    I’m with you, WTF. I feel terrible for the family’s loss, but I refuse to live in fear. On the other hand, I (and my neighbors) a block away want more facts: she lived in Kent, but wanted to walk the beach on a Sunday night–was it raining?…that stretch of beach? Was that a regular stroll? The car was left…And, it would have made sense to ask for what anyone could recall in a more timely manner, if it had been at all possible.

  • The Shadow March 15, 2012 (6:06 pm)

    Another thought; did her family report her missing Sunday night? It seems the police would’ve mentioned that on their website. If my mom/wife said she was driving up to Seattle to take a walk, and not return (on a ‘school night’ no less), I’d certainly be calling my local PD.

    This is probably too soon and in questionable taste to raise these questions, but lacking more info on the case, you have to admit the questions are starting to pile up verrrry quickly here.

  • Tracey March 15, 2012 (6:10 pm)

    Can someone post a link re: the recent attacks being mentioned near the Alki restaurants? I had not heard of them. Thanks in advance!

  • Karen (Old Desolate) March 15, 2012 (6:16 pm)

    I was on my way to photograph the waves along the sea wall that morning and was passed by two police cars so figured something was happening nearby that morning. Unfortunately something terrible did happen – though details are not yet known nothing can take the “terrible” out of a situation like this. I talked briefly to someone from the WSB and learned that a search had just been finished and a body recovered. Now we know a little more about what happened and that’s dreadful.

    I run alone along Beach Drive frequently (never at night) and along the seawall and always felt it was safe to do so. However, a solo hike to Me-Kwa-Mooks park gave me the creeps with graffiti everywhere and “bad vibes”. I didn’t linger. To other women (and men) who run – I guess we need to all be extra vigilent these days – like not running with ear-buds unless you’re with a group. I like to run solo so running with a group won’t work for me but I will be as careful as I can be.

    Like someone else posted, I won’t let “them” stop me from doing what I love but I will keep eyes and ears open. I only hope they find who did this and SOON.

    I wish I could find the right words to offer to her friends and loved ones. Sometimes words just don’t feel like enough but I am so sorry and appalled that this happened to this young woman.

    Old desolate

  • Barbara Austin March 15, 2012 (6:23 pm)

    Thank you for all you are doing to keep people apprised of what’s happening. I worked with her and it’s been very difficult getting through this. I just pray that they catch who ever did this quickly, so they won’t do it again. My prayers are with her husband, daughter, father and the rest of the family.

  • Tracey March 15, 2012 (6:23 pm)

    Thank you!

  • Tracey March 15, 2012 (6:28 pm)

    Regarding the weather on Sunday, I was in the Junction strolling in and out of stores with my nephew on Sunday and remember it being sunny yet very cold and windy. That was until about early evening hours.

    adding: It got even colder as the night went on. So, I can see what might have initially drawn her to the area as far as it being sunny and dry enough, but it was still feeling pretty wintry that night. Anyway, just my weather memory/observation.

  • Loco in W.S. March 15, 2012 (6:51 pm)

    @shadow go away

  • Gina March 15, 2012 (6:55 pm)

    In the last few months every now and then people have mentioned being trailed or watched by someone in a car when walking in that area–and being creeped out. I think I have read postings in the WSB forum, or in the comments area of some of the main page posts–anyone else remember those reports?

  • Ken March 15, 2012 (6:55 pm)

    @ The Shadow –

    Was just thinking the same thing when I saw your post. Why travel from Kent to have a walk at Me-Kwa-Mooks? Especially at night? Surely Kent or even some closer surrounding communities have parks or other places to walk? And if a beach/water setting is required, it would seem a bit more logical to perhaps walk at Salt Water State Park (which is nearly due west of Kent), Normandy Beach, Seahurst, or even Dash Point. All are MUCH closer then Me-Kwa-Mooks.

    Anyway, not to diminish this tragedy in anyway, but it just would seem there’s more to this story of why there specifically and at that time?

  • LizLemon March 15, 2012 (8:00 pm)

    What a horrible tragedy. My thoughts and prayers go to the family. I hope they are able to find peace. While I understand that this is very scary for our community (and I too hope our SPD find this POS quickly), some of the comments and speculation feel insensitive. Remember, a loving mother and friend is gone…please show some respect for her and those grieving for her.

  • Mike March 15, 2012 (8:11 pm)

    Sad to hear about this and worries me that we don’t know much of anything about what / who did it. Such a popular location to walk, I hope everyone is extra alert anywhere they go, especially in the dark. Carry flashlights (I use a 3D cell Maglite when I walk my dog, figure it’s got good lightening and makes a nice heavy metal club in a pinch). Carry your cell phones charged, call in suspicious activity, report it to the WSB as well.
    .
    These types of local news stories are helpful and WSB does a great job keeping us all informed. Thank you WSB!

  • Lincoln Park - Angela March 15, 2012 (8:13 pm)

    I take my dog to alki beach drive on a regular basis. Sunday night because of spring forward we were out that evening. When we walked down the hill from Lincoln park to beach drive my dog PULLED BACK, he never does this, he stood his ground, and would not allow me to walk down the street. My dog is so energetic, I can take him out for HOURS, this is the first time this has ever happened. He sensed danger, and I am blessed to have him. If you can, take a dog with you on your run or walk.

  • A March 15, 2012 (8:27 pm)

    Why should shadow go away?? Those questions are great. I’d like to know the answers myself.

  • Alki Resident March 15, 2012 (8:32 pm)

    I wonder if she was robbed.Was her purse and keys found etc?Was she stabbed,since many would’ve heard gun shots?Did she have a stalker?Or domestic situation?
    If someone is willing to put a fundraiser together to help raise the crime stopper reward,I’d be willing to put in some money,anyone else?
    Twice today I’ve felt there’s something in that park(Mee-Kwa-mooks),I hope they search it for somebody or possibly a discarded weapon.Until then,Im keeping my kids close.

  • brin March 15, 2012 (8:33 pm)

    I’ve lived a few hundred feet south of there just over 20 years ago. I woke one morning and saw a body on the beach just to the south of those condos. It turned out to be someone who had jumped off the Tacoma Narrows Bridge several days earlier. So it would be fairly difficult if not impossible to infer were the murder was committed based on where the body was found.

  • bebecat March 15, 2012 (8:45 pm)

    I lived across from me kwa mooks for 10 yrs including the time of the 1994 shooting and I only ventured down the lower part near the water once and it is creepy there. I never went to the lower part again. Over the years there were many weird things involing the police, fights, bloodied up people being led away in hand cuffs and stuff. So so sad for the family of this women.

  • Alki Resident March 15, 2012 (8:47 pm)

    Just read Q13,her throat was slashed.This sick pup needs to be caught. I know a few people willing and ready to help distribute fliers when they come available.

  • Viktor March 15, 2012 (9:05 pm)

    I walk through the Emma Schmitz Memorial Viewpoint park several times a week and through that lower part which has access to the water and beach. It’s beautiful. That said, it’s not infrequently that I see people hanging-out, out of sight of the street smoking and, occasionally, engaging in other activity that would usually be private. But I was more creeped-out walking around downtown one weekday afternoon not long ago with all the drug dealers and all. Let’s not get too hysterical about something that was likely random. Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings, whether here on Beach Drive or wherever you are.

  • MB March 15, 2012 (9:40 pm)

    @Alki Resident – Where did you read that? The article on Q13 I just read said “Police did not say how she was slain.” Is there more than one article?

    Condolences to Ms. Guy’s family and loved ones. Such a sad story, no matter the details. Though, hopefully with more information this horrible person (or persons) will be caught. Stay safe and aware out there everyone!

  • Mark March 15, 2012 (9:46 pm)

    We live on Beach Drive down the street. Just last week we had a very strange encounter with a family member and a man walking down the street. Seattle police came, recognized the person on our video surveillance and followed up. We have 100% faith in our police. They are vigilant and will figure this horrible crime out.

  • Nearby Resident March 15, 2012 (9:50 pm)

    Our house is very near Me Kwa Mooks and I choose to not walk anywhere near it at night. There have been several occasions, in broad daylight, when I have been approached by verbally lewd men that were hanging out, drinking, as I walked my dogs by the water/steps area. There is absolutely no police presence that I see there day or night. At night, I have seen many “parties” with large groups of people drinking, yelling, and cursing. There needs to be something done about it. The parks are for everyone, and when people are too intimidated to go to them, the police need to step up their watch. My heart goes out to the victim and her family. I feel, with the way that area has been lately, it could have been any one of us; or any of our friends who might be visiting that was victimized in such a brutal, heartless, way.

  • steve March 15, 2012 (10:09 pm)

    I also have faith in SPD but why did it take so long for this news to come out. I do not understand what the delay was on getting the info out to the public. My condolences to all friends and family.

  • j March 15, 2012 (10:10 pm)

    I, too, just watched Q13 news and heard one of the Crime Stoppers guys say the victim had a slit throat. This makes me ill. My prayers are with the family. Hopefully they can pull up some leads and justice can be served.

  • Alki Resident March 15, 2012 (10:13 pm)

    @Nearby Resident-you couldn’t be more right.
    @MB-it’s a video by Crime Stoppers.

  • E March 15, 2012 (10:22 pm)

    After hearing the story tonight on Q13, my first thought is that the murder is linked to the serial killer in Bremerton. Why hasn’t there been any mention of that in the news. I hope the killer is caught soon with the help of public awareness.

  • Elliott O'Donnell March 15, 2012 (10:22 pm)

    @Angela: My dog was acting very weird on Sunday as well, and we live just a couple blocks away from the park. He will normally wander the house, but that night, he wouldn’t leave my side. I do think that animals can sense evil.

  • HT March 15, 2012 (10:27 pm)

    I don’t know if this is relevant…but the woman is from Kent and the story said that she was involved with the Girl Scouts.

    I was in the Subway sandwich shop at Morgan Street Junction last Thursday when a woman was in there mentioning she was from Kent. Her daughter and her were at the Thriftway selling cookies. I overheard it in passing…and commented to my partner at the time that the competition must be fierce to come all the way up here to sell cookies.

    I don’t know if there is a connection or not…ive een staring at the picture trying to figure out if it was the same woman. The one I saw was wearing a grey hoodie and perhaps glasses…

    Tragedy for the entire family…..my thoughts go out to them….

    • WSB March 15, 2012 (10:35 pm)

      HT, I would urge you to call one of the hotlines and mention that. Though we all might assume police would be aware of a detail like that if it is true and relevant, you’d be surprised. Regarding troops selling cookies far from home base, apparently that’s not so unusual; I was “talking” on Twitter a week or two ago with a woman whose troop is in White Center, and asked her to let us know where so we could stop by for a photo – she said the closest place they could get a cookie-selling spot was Capitol Hill. Meanwhile … regarding what “E” said … those cases HAVE been covered fairly extensively, but the past few months, Kitsap County has been hit by so much, including the state trooper murder right after the school shooting, that it may have seemed overshadowed. Here’s what I found from the fine Kitsap Sun:
      .
      http://www.kitsapsun.com/news/2012/feb/27/bremerton-residents-seek-answers-on-killer/
      .
      To Suzi – FWIW I agree. Many, many years ago, I used to routinely drive *seventy miles* (from Davis, CA, to San Francisco) for a beach walk … sounds crazy but people do fall in love with spots, so who knows. But again, if anyone has any fragment of information that might possibly be relevant, you never know what could help investigators solve the case.
      .
      TR

  • suzi March 15, 2012 (10:32 pm)

    I don’t know why it would seem so strange to people that she would drive from Kent to this spot for a walk along the beach? It’s a beautiful spot even without a sunset. I have been running to this park and back (at night) several times a week for five years, very scary. My thoughts and prayers are with her family, so sad.

  • Beach drive resident March 15, 2012 (10:44 pm)

    I’m completely freaked out and sadden by this tragedy. My condolences to her friends and family. I live just a stone’s throw away and am trying to have faith that this will be solved quickly.
    I know there is a homeless person that lives in the park. Maybe he knows/saw something. Have you all seen the tall bearded hooded sweatshirt guy that roams Beach Drive and dumpster dives? I’m not pointing my finger at him but I do believe he lives in that park.
    Someone must have seen something?? I wish I would have known about this before today. With two toddlers at home I can hardly remember the last 24 hours, but 4 days ago…not a chance.

  • Ajax March 15, 2012 (10:59 pm)

    I seems that a while back a female runner posted or reported that she was running in that area before sunrise and someone drove alongside her and she felt threatened (seems like it was a white BMW?). Of course, it’s probably unrelated, and we are all probably much more aware of crime and suspicious activity because of the WSB (that’s not a criticism). It jogged my memory nonetheless. I’m very sorry for the victim and her family and friends. No matter how it happened, it’s a terrible tragedy for them.

  • HT March 15, 2012 (11:02 pm)

    TR,

    Thanks for the suggestion. I just got off the phone with them and passed along what I know. If anything If it can help
    At least establish if it was the same woman, I’ll do whatever I can….

  • Nick March 15, 2012 (11:10 pm)

    I recommend avoiding Me-Kwa-Mooks at night, weird people and weird things seem to happen there after dark on a consistent basis.

  • Jana March 15, 2012 (11:22 pm)

    I’m wondering if there is any connection to guys who were stalking the female jogger while running along Beach Dr SW in the early hours of the morning. It was several months to a year back if my memory serves me correctly. Remember the report about the two guys in a car who were following her and making threatening comments etc? It was around La Rustica if I am correct. :/ So sad for her family and friends, what a beautiful smile she had.

  • Tracey March 15, 2012 (11:29 pm)

    The thought did cross my mind about a possible connection to the Bremerton murders. Maybe I’ve watched too many episodes of CSI. But, honestly, they have been on that guy’s trail a lot lately and even posted a sketch last month. If he felt pressure and felt like he needed to get out of that area, where would he go? WS is easily accessible from the islands by ferry and, if he were uncomfortable in a city (downtown), this would be a pretty good default location.

    Anyway, enough of that armchair detective moment. Here is the story from Q13 where they mention that her throat was slashed: http://www.q13fox.com/news/kcpq-seattle-police-seek-publics-assistance-in-homicide-case-20120315,0,2462431.story

  • Beach Hiker March 15, 2012 (11:53 pm)

    I don’t find it at all strange that a person from Kent would be walking along a beach in WS at night. She may have been sad about something or had something to think over, gone for a drive and just wound up there. I know I’ve done the same thing occasionally, there’s nothing unusual about it. Sometimes it’s nice to get out of your own neighborhood to think. Maybe she had been visiting someone…there are lots of reasons. I am so sorry for her family. I, perhaps naively, really thought that stretch of Beach Drive was safe and would not have been scared to walk there after dark.

  • Nick March 16, 2012 (12:09 am)

    Sorry but I’ve read the story multiple times and I don’t see where it says the cause of death anywhere, am I missing something?

    • WSB March 16, 2012 (12:21 am)

      Neither police nor the Medical Examiner have announced Ms. Guy’s cause of death. That information usually comes from the Medical Examiner, whose media release this afternoon pointedly described the cause of death as “pending.” However, two commenters here contend that the Q13 TV report – not available online last time I looked at their website – included a CrimeStoppers interview (Q13 is the “official” CrimeStoppers station) that mentioned a cause of death. I will not be able to ask police about this until morning. – TR
      .
      P.S. For those who remember the story of the woman running on Beach Drive and the car that pulled over – it was a reader report, and I found it in WSB archives. Again, not to say it’s related, but since those reading the comments may wonder what that was about … https://westseattleblog.com/2011/08/3-west-seattle-crime-watch-updates-and-a-creepy-encounter

  • MB March 16, 2012 (1:07 am)

    Just soo sad! Scary that there’s no telling where you’re Safe anymore! My husband and I just moved back here from federal way while he was in the army and I’ve never felt so unsafe. Seems like crimes keep getting scarier and scarier and closer to home! I pray this loser is found quickly so there can be one less creep on the streets!

  • NotMe March 16, 2012 (1:57 am)

    Hey Nick… that is the WORST thing you can do. You don’t avoid that space at night whatsoever. You and your neighbors need to walk the area together in numbers. This isn’t a boogey man. Keep your neighborhood safe. Stop being afraid and letting the bad guys get any turf in our neighborhood. Talk with the police and they will educate you and your neighbors on how to best watch out for you and yours.

  • Jana March 16, 2012 (2:33 am)

    Sorry, I haven’t been up to date with the news or WSB but about the Bremerton killer, I heard they recently searched an apartment building near Juneau for a possible suspect. Is this correct? I don’t know if this was word of mouth info. or if it has already been in the news, but it kinda creeps me out now that this has happened to this lovely lady.

    Also, as a resident of the 4800 Beach Dr. SW area, I vividly remember that early Monday morning that she was found being very stormy and windy. The tide was very high around 5:30am; the waves kept slamming logs into the bulkhead, causing our house to shake. I am not sure if that is any help but that’s all I can remember at this point.

  • asteria March 16, 2012 (7:24 am)

    I agree with NotMe – generally the more people out in any area, especially in the evening, the safer I feel. I know I’ve read about attackers who prey on strangers targeting someone but then not following through on the attack because other people were around.
    .
    Of course we don’t know what happened here. Maybe she was already in the area visiting someone and decided to take a walk on the beach afterwards; she didn’t necessarily drive up from Kent just to go to the park. SPD would not have said she “planned to take a walk along the beach” unless they got that information from someone.
    .
    I don’t think it’s realistic to expect the police to patrol every area of the city – there are not enough cops (or money in the budget) to cover that. I worked in Belltown for years, and people (including myself) have gotten assaulted there pretty often for years; even with all the complaints from local businesses and individuals, SPD would only sporadically increase foot and bike patrols for awhile. The patrols helped, but then something would happen in another area of the city; SPD shifted the patrols and Belltown would go back to being sketchy.
    .
    I know it’s annoying but people in the area have to be more proactive about reporting suspicious activity to the police – are the people here commenting about sketchy activity doing that? Call the SPD non-emergency number: 206-625-5011. They won’t respond right away if there’s not an active crime, but I’ve been told that they will respond to a lot of complaints about suspicious behavior in an area. I don’t know if “citizen patrols” have been done in West Seattle, but I’ve heard that can help deter crime when people feel the police are not being responsive.
    .
    Condolences to the family and friends of Ms. Guy, and thanks to WSB for the great reporting as always. My boyfriend and I sometimes drive from AK Junction area to walk along the waterfront area of the park – it’s beautiful and I’ve never felt threatened there, but I haven’t walked there alone and we always go in the daytime. Be safe everyone.

  • wseadude March 16, 2012 (8:29 am)

    I have noticed an older blue custom van (paint in bad condition) down by beach drive with a person sleeping in it. although further south from where this happened (lowman beach/side street). they come and go in the middle of the night which is creepy, and park behind a row of unoccupied houses due to be torn down for the CSO project. probably nothing but i will call into the tip line. otherwise keep your eyes peeled.

  • Steve March 16, 2012 (8:49 am)

    I live right across the street from where the body was recovered from the Sound and was watching the event unfold. What a sad turn of events to find out it was a murder. We’re active walkers/joggers and are constantly out in the neighborhood and will be extra cautious and vigilant from now on. It’s such a peaceful area and it’s so sad that violence has entered it. Condolences to Ms. Guy’s family for this horrible tragedy. I hope they find the killer…and soon.

  • Lamont Cranston March 16, 2012 (9:28 am)

    Did anyone notice if the police did any significant searching of the Mee-Kwa-Mooks park? That seems the most logical place for the murder to happen (much of the park area is well below street level out of sight, and with the high tide and surf, it would’ve been very easy to push the body into the water, and the outgoing tide and south wind waves would’ve pushed her north). If she had been stabbed, as one poster thought they saw on the Q13 website, wouldn’t there be blood evidence? It seems to me the SPD should’ve taped off the park and gone over it with a fine-toothed comb to search for evidence, but there’s been no mention of any real police activity at M-K-M park, just the recovery at Comorant Park.

    Like other posters, I find it odd that she was at that park, as opposed to the more popular Constellation and Alki Beach parks. There’s no indication so far she had a West Seattle connection, or was visiting anyone, and it just seems odd that someone from out of the community would go to all that trouble to go to MKM when there are such nicer parks closer to her probable route of travel.

    Sorry, I’m not ready to buy the theory that she just randomly decided to come out here on a dark and windy night, and go to that little, out-of-the-way place where she just happened to cross paths with a random crazy who also just happened to be hanging out at that dark, cold, windy spot. I realize that sometimes ‘stuff happens’, but so far, there are too many questions.

  • KCPQ viewer March 16, 2012 (9:36 am)

    Last night on the video report (not the print with the story), KCPQ 13 reported this poor woman’s throat was slashed, you have to watch the video with the story, the printed story is not a transcript of the video.

  • westseattleperson March 16, 2012 (10:07 am)

    I don’t find it odd that she was walking there at all. I often park down that way and walk back towards Alki. Change of scenery.

    What I do find odd is this story isn’t even on Seattle Times’ website that I can find. Is there something we don’t know that is causing this not to be front-page headline news? Seems like it normally would be.

  • Beach drive resident March 16, 2012 (10:14 am)

    Lamont, they combed the park thoroughly yesterday (thurs) which is a long period from when she visited and went missing. Sniffing dogs, tons of cops, and others scouring the area. It is interesting that cops know she intended to go for a long walk on the beach. I wonder why they won’t say how they know that information.

  • Alki resident March 16, 2012 (10:18 am)

    @wseadude_does this van have two other colors on it as well?Saw two men sitting in a blue older van yesterday with steamed windows outside Pioneer coffee and Slices.They looked very shady and never seen that vehicle around before.Mentioned it to the guy in Slices.

  • TT March 16, 2012 (10:20 am)

    I work in the Rainier valley, where light rail robbery and attacks have gotten out of hand. Citizen groups in SE Seattle in conjunction with SPD have begun walkabouts on certian nights, treking into areas they deem “scary” or unsafe. It is encouraging to read all the comments here, and there is a strong community on Beach Drive. We should plan some community walks at night, everyone sticking together and with flashlights, reporting anything suspicious. But the goal here is to tell all the shady folks that Beach Drive is ours, and we will be out and about OFTEN.

  • Kathy March 16, 2012 (10:36 am)

    I agree TT, I was just telling my husband we need to start walking there again, regularly. Along with many other women of West Seattle, my daughter walks there all the time, alone, and these creeps need to know that this is our community and that uncivilized behavior will not be tolerated period. My condolences to the family, but please let this not be the end of a beautiful and caring neighborhood.

  • WTF March 16, 2012 (10:38 am)

    @westseattleperson I have the same question. And, I believe there is more to the story than a random act of violence.

  • Nick March 16, 2012 (11:05 am)

    @ NotMe – I’m not sure where I ever said I lived around Me-Kwa-Mooks, All I said was that I recommend people avoid the area at night, it’s just been a weird spot after hours for as long as I can remember. I live fairly close, but I’m definitely not in the neighborhood, so I’ll leave that up to them.

  • Ryan March 16, 2012 (11:11 am)

    Every so often I visit the park with my dog. There is a sketchy homeless man that lives in the park up in the wooded area (he makes small fires to stay warm). He walks back and forth from the city almost every day and almost always has a red hooded sweatshirt on with a black coat (I see him a lot when commuting to work). Once I happened to walk by him and my dog got very aggressive and acted really strange and concerned. May be nothing, but could be worth checking out.

  • hmmm March 16, 2012 (11:16 am)

    I agree – something is either A) missing from this story that the police won’t reveal yet for obvious reasons or B) there’s a serious sicko out there!
    .
    even more reason to ‘buddy up’ when you go out and always tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back. This advice just isn’t for kids.
    .
    I know if my spouse was not home as expected I’d be calling the cops ASAP – whether or not they could be technically a ‘missing person’.

  • GG March 16, 2012 (11:20 am)

    I was jogging around 7pm on Beach Dr. that evening. It started raining really bad and I saw a gentleman packing a canoe on top of his green Jeep Cherokee near that park. The waves were crashing and the wind was really bad. Definitely not good weather to go for a walk on the beach.

    My condolences to the family. We need to band together to keep this area safe for everyone.

  • Lamont Cranston March 16, 2012 (11:28 am)

    @Westseattleperson: One reason you may not find her behavior odd is that your ‘handle’ suggests you live in the area. If so, MKM park is familiar to you, and relatively easy to get to. Please remember Mrs. G left her home in Kent on a dark, cold, windy night, drove for over a half-hour, and chose to park and walk here when there are so many nicer areas around.

    If Mrs. G. had a West Seattle connection (lived/had friends here/had a history of visiting), I can see it. Otherwise, it makes about as much sense as you leaving your home to drive over to Mercer Island to walk around some of their little waterfront parklets. Do you see my point here? She went to a lot of trouble at an unusual time to go quite a ways for a walk.

    As I said, there may be elements not revealed here that would make her actions quite sensible. But then this also leave the matter of the killer. If we go with the assumption the crime happened at MKM (the site lends itself to the commission of the crime and the disposal of the body), it is puzzling why a killer would choose to be hanging out there that particular night. There is no cover or protection from the strong SW wind that was blowing that night. Add to that the wind chill and the damp spray that surely existed at the time, and I find it hard to accept that even a random crazy would choose to linger there for any length of time waiting for a victim.

    I do like the idea of the periodic ‘citizen walks’ at night in the area. A few of these, particularly in the summer, and we could end the problems with kids hanging out there to drink & drug. So who’s down with this?

    One last point; like others, I’m REALLY puzzled by the muted response to this crime by the SPD & the larger news media (Times/PI/TV). If Ms. G’s throat had been cut, wouldn’t that have been obvious on Monday? Why did the SPD wait ’til yesterday to search the area around her car? Given how bonkers the media gets when a white woman is killed/kidnapped whatever, why this gets buried on the inside of the local section of the Times is really odd. Usually, when an law-abiding citizen is the victim of a horrendous crime like this, it’s front page news, at least page one below the fold. When the deaths involve folks on the margins of society (gangbangers, etc), then it tends to be buried. As far as we know, Mrs. G. was certainly not in the latter camp. Why the underwhelming reaction?

  • Denise March 16, 2012 (11:34 am)

    The potential connection to the Bremerton cases got me thinking – so I went back and checked out articles (as I’m sure many of you have done already). Melody Brannon – stabbed (no further information on where she was stabbed). Sarah Burke – stabbed in the neck. Kenny Cobb (survived attack) – also stabbed.

  • Casey March 16, 2012 (11:37 am)

    I did see the story on Seattle times a couple days ago-I found it via yahoo though.

  • Tracey March 16, 2012 (11:46 am)

    I just looked at the Q 13 article and the sentence about her throat being slashed is no longer there. But, I saw it last night and at least 2 or 3 other commentators here mentioned it. It was also in the video as someone else said. But, it looks like they have gone and retracted that. I understand them not wanting all the details of the crime to be out. But, I do believe that people who live in the area deserve to have an idea of what they might be dealing with out there.

  • Tracey March 16, 2012 (11:52 am)

    Do we know that when she left her house in Kent and/or when she arrived here that it was dark? I think something to keep in mind is that Sunday was the first full day of more daylight hours. She may have left at say, 7? And then before she knew it, it was getting darker. The daylight time savings things may have thrown her schedule off a bit.

  • Kathy March 16, 2012 (11:53 am)

    @Westseattleperson; We are certainly up for a walk. Not looking for trouble at all, but in a group setting, to take back the neighborhood, you bet

  • evergreen March 16, 2012 (11:54 am)

    Was the Jeremy Peck case ever solved? Just wondering. This case involved 2 “Hispanic” guys with a white BMW, and a white BMW w/ two creepy guys (no description of guys) also harassed the jogger as described above. Probably unrelated to this, though….

    Also, so many things are reported on WSB. Do you think it’s possible that there may be some relevant info on this board somewhere that could offer a tip? This case is so disturbing, especially b/c it has now left a child motherless.

  • Tracey March 16, 2012 (12:13 pm)

    Frankly, I am not surprised that our own local news sources are doing a better job at reporting this than the larger news outlets. Visibly, the articles is not in the top news. However, it is still listed in the “Most Read” section on places like King 5’s website. So, at least people are reading it and spreading the news. King 5 actually has a link at the bottom of their article that says ‘More at West Seattle Blog’ and links here. So, that is how interested (or not) they are in covering it, they are basically handing it over to local neighborhood news.

    evergreen, Jeremy Peck’s murder is still unsolved. I don’t think I saw his story covered too often outside neighborhood news either.

  • PC March 16, 2012 (12:43 pm)

    I always look out the window in the morning before work to see what the weather is like, and I was shocked to see Police cars, a water rescue team and a tarp. I was so hoping it was an accident and not a murder. I’m just sick. I took some pictures and a short video from my phone, but I haven’t published them. Very Sad….

  • Nicole March 16, 2012 (2:04 pm)

    My heart goes out to the family. A message of caution to Commenters: please choose your words carefully. As someone who has lost a family member to murder, seeing comments and speculations about what might have happened on blogs/newspaper article responses can be hurtful and may make it harder to cope with the tragedy. I know we are all concerned about something so violent and horrific happening in our community and we should all remain vigilant until the perpetrator is caught. Please just be mindful of what you say and the way you say it, especially considering that the victim had children and her children will likely read all of these comments.

    • WSB March 16, 2012 (2:14 pm)

      I echo what Nicole says. I am watching these comments carefully and have declined to approve a few; I also have checked with police today and so far, no new information to release publicly; we will write a followup as soon as there is any new tidbit of any kind. – TR

  • More info please!! March 16, 2012 (2:15 pm)

    I drove by Mee Kwa Mooks on the way home about an hour ago and saw an unmarked news crew about to tape. I also saw two scuba divers, either getting ready to go in or getting out.

    As far as I have read, this info has not been released, but do we know if there was any other types of assault? The jogger stalking incident seemed to be sexually motivated. As a woman who lives close by, it would be nice to know.

    Also, Mee Kwa Mooks is a great park to storm watch from. If driving by on a night like that one while on your way to Alki, that would have been reason enough to pull over and go on a walk. You don’t have to be familiar with the area to notice pretty waves splashing. Also Beach Dr. SW is a nice scenic drive with pretty homes; a fun drive till you find a spot that is appealing enough to get out for a look at the view.

    As for her family, my heart breaks for you. May God comfort you all at this time Dear Ones. Justice will prevail either on this earth or in Heaven. My deepest sympathies to you. We’re all holding our loved ones a little closer right now. Praying for you, and for whomever is responsible for this heinous crime to be brought into the light.

  • will o wisp March 16, 2012 (2:31 pm)

    Re: Q13 comment. Sometimes the media rush to print/air information that later proves to be just suposition. The WSB seems to be very diligent in veting their information.

  • Rebecca March 16, 2012 (2:37 pm)

    Did anyone ever get a license plate on the creepy guy in the black car who was harassing women in parking lots and harassed a jogger along this stretch of road? Couldn’t hurt to talk to that guy….

  • DM March 16, 2012 (2:39 pm)

    Thank you Nicole….

  • wseadude March 16, 2012 (3:05 pm)

    Alki resident- yeah the blue van I have noticed does have a multi-toned paint job, I believe they are different blues but it is always dark,, “stripes” i guess you could call them. it is also recognizable by custom side windows.

  • Alki Resident March 16, 2012 (3:22 pm)

    @Will o wisp-the story and facts from Q13,came from the mouth of the crime stoppers themselves.
    Wseadude-that’s the van for sure.Ill see it again Im sure,this time get plate number like I felt I should’ve done in the first place.It really stood out to me.

    • WSB March 16, 2012 (4:27 pm)

      I just mentioned this in another thread where it came up. Q13 added their video report to the story page today. The claim of the cause of death was NOT in an interview. It was a quick line in the reporter’s voiceover, “Police say …” I talked with police earlier this afternoon. The ONLY source of information right now is the media team, and they say that didn’t come from them, and they can’t confirm/deny/comment. So maybe it’s true. Maybe it’s not. I do find it telling that it is not repeated in the text accompanying the story. However Ms. Guy died, there is a killer on the loose and I do know that police are working the case extensively and intensively. P.S. We drove Beach Drive in both directions in the past hour-plus. One TV truck out there right now. Somebody somewhere thought they saw divers – we didn’t see any sign of any such … TR

  • Jtkvt March 16, 2012 (3:31 pm)

    @Mark Is it safe to visit?
    Joanna

  • kgdlg March 16, 2012 (3:37 pm)

    I hate how everyone becomes an armchair detective in blog comments. It happened after the Morgan shooting too and it is so sad to pose hurtful questions about a murder victim’s behavior when her family must still be reeling…thanks WSB for monitoring.

  • Tracey March 16, 2012 (4:13 pm)

    I think for the most part, people are just trying be helpful. Of course, I haven’t seen any of the comments that weren’t approved. So, who knows. I think people are analyzing everything. I mean, look at the way some people are talking about this area. You would think it was some big crack house area. Also, someone (maybe it wasn’t on WSB, can’t remember) referred to it as a “deserted area”…? I do agree with you though that people shouldn’t be questioning things such as her character or reading ulterior motives into what she might have been doing there, at this point, especially since they have stated they believe it was a stranger attack.

    • WSB March 16, 2012 (4:19 pm)

      And if anyone sees something like that – we have rules against blaming the victim, so please flag me if somehow I miss a comment. editor@westseattleblog.com – Speaking of which, another rule we have, we do NOT require real names BUT we do require that if you are participating in a discussion, you keep the same name you started with. At least one participant here has tried to post with more than one handle, in this comment thread. That is not allowed. Thanks. – TR

  • OLD RESIDENT March 16, 2012 (5:13 pm)

    Unless times have changed I am guessing this was a murder by someone the victim knew. I lived across from that park through 2010 and as a female would walk/run that area daily in the dark. I never felt unsafe/uneasy. My only complaint was that people would drink there after the bars closed on Alki and/or move fights there when they were kicked out of those same bars. This was nearly always after a sunny day which Sunday was not. My condolences go out to her family and lets hope SPD can solve this crime quickly!

  • Neighbor March 16, 2012 (5:16 pm)

    Although I did not know Greggette personally, she and her family are from my neighborhood in Kent. Another neighbor closer to her, did confirm that she used to live in W. Seattle and would frequently visit for walks. Hopefully that helps answer speculation as to why she would drive so far from home. Our deepest condolences go out to her family as they deal with all of this. It sounds like the W. Seattle residents are doing the right thing by banding together. We started a block watch over 2 years ago when there was an uptick in crime in our neighborhood and it really makes a difference when you’re working together.

  • Carol Harmon March 16, 2012 (5:21 pm)

    My husband worked with Gregette, and she was a wonderful, kind woman. We were invited to their home several times for dinner and she was a gracious host, excellent mother and a happy and joyful person. She was well-respected at her work, and she will be missed by all who knew her!

  • Dave March 16, 2012 (5:28 pm)

    This is so difficult.
    I’ve worked with Greggette for many years. She was a kind, loving woman and just a damn good person. I feel both profound sorrow and an incredible burning rage over this senseless act. We’re all numb…
    For whatever reason the “actual” cause of death hasn’t been officially released, but her father did call us at work a couple of days ago to see how we were all handling this and he let us know what happened – (the SPD detective that came by yesterday wasn’t too happy about that but couldn’t fault him.)
    That one horrifying particular fact that others above are attributing to Crime Stopper’s comments last night is, unfortunately, accurate.
    And, according to her father, they had walked there several times in the past with a dog but this time she went solo.

  • More info please!!/Jana March 16, 2012 (5:54 pm)

    Sorry, I didn’t know about the only use one name rule. So here I am with both, bending the rule again… ;) TR- The divers were out there around 1pm, not that it really matters.

    • WSB March 16, 2012 (6:03 pm)

      Thanks. It’s of interest… right now for example we’re also staying even more attentive to unusual developments around town just in case they turn out to be related to this case …

  • i'mcoveredinbees March 16, 2012 (6:04 pm)

    First, my heartfelt condolences to family and friends. My stomach is in my throat… Please know you are in our prayers! We hope you can find comfort in the center of this tragedy and we pray for justice for Ms. Guy.

    Secondly, to the commenters trying to figure out why Ms. Guy was there, and why newspapers may or may not be publishing what:

    I do not think it is very sensitive to spend a lot of time trying to figure out what happened by making these random guesses. What happened is really scary and it seems like it will help to know, but I think that is insensitive to Ms. Guy’s loved ones. It will help US to feel less afraid but it will actually hurt them to read those comments. I think there is a tendency to try to figure out what happened so we can all go back to feeling safe again and like something like this will never happen again. Those types of conversations could happen in private and not on a public forum where family members and other loved ones will see, and might even be checking for helpful clues. I think this should just be a place to share clues, for updates, and to share compassion.What happened to Ms. Guy is very trauma inducing and we should be a supportive community by not increasing that trauma through random speculation.

  • Cheryl March 16, 2012 (6:33 pm)

    It’s already been said, but the ONLY way sketchy people will stay out of our neighborhoods is if we (and our friends/neighbors) walk our streets day and night, say hello to each other, get to know each other, be vigilant, pay attention, call in suspicious or weird or out of the ordinary stuff, and make it generally known that YOU are watching out for each other and THEY (the sketchy) are not welcome on your block or in your neighborhood.
    .
    Cowering at home in fear is no solution, neither is expecting Seattle to send a plethora of cops to your area to “fix” this. It’s up to us to partner w/ law enforcement, and with our neighbors, and to just simply be more aware. Not paranoid, not fearful, not reactionary, just aware.
    .
    As for the victim, I don’t even want to begin to figure out why she drove to West Seattle from Kent on a blustery Sunday night. Maybe she grew up in West Seattle, or just has good memories of walks on our shores, maybe she was meeting someone, maybe she just picked the wrong place at the wrong time. How can we ever really know for sure?
    .
    What really matters is that she was murdered. And I (*we*) want the person who did this to be caught and eliminated from the gene pool. Sorry, but I do.
    .
    My sincere condolences to her family and friends. What a horrible reality to wake up to. I am thinking of them, keeping them in my prayers, and wishing them some measure of peace as they process their grief. Hopefully justice will soon be served.
    .
    Thank you TR for not allowing this story to stray into SensationalismVille. Now, come on West Seattle, let’s rally and start looking out for each other. Please, if for no other reason than in Ms.Guy’s memory, we must.

  • Jtkvt March 16, 2012 (6:36 pm)

    I know someone else mentioned the Bremerton cases! It is a fairly short and easy ferry ride to west Seattle! I am sure the SPD are working very hard. I hope they solve this soon!

  • Marie M March 16, 2012 (6:39 pm)

    Rest in peace, Greggette.

  • Kim March 16, 2012 (7:53 pm)

    Sorry, bees. It is horrific. But knowing it happened a block away does lend itself to wanting to know as much info as possible, including sharing info. You can bet I’m out running, walking, driving with a different outlook… And with Ms. Guy in mind. May she rest in peace.

  • i'mcoveredinbees March 16, 2012 (8:18 pm)

    Hi Kim. Ya, I hope I didn’t come off like a jerk. I think we should definitely share info.

  • 2 Much Whine March 16, 2012 (8:50 pm)

    No, bees, you absolutely did not come off as a jerk. I feel the insensitive folks that are questioning her motivation for wanting to walk on a beach that isn’t closer to her home are the jerks. You merely tried to remind them that they can keep their questions/assumptions/accusations to themselves in the interest of showing compassion to family and friends. You hit the nail on the head.

  • 4200blockofBeachDr March 16, 2012 (8:51 pm)

    As so many before me have posted, my condolences to Ms. Guy’s family, friends, and coworkers. May you find pace in your memories.

    I just wanted to recount a couple of comments made by 2 different pairs of homicide detectives with whom I spoke Thursday evening. The two that came to my condo said tha t the homicide occurred “across the street,” that would be the shore side. They said that the victim was a “storm chaser” and had come here to watch the storm (it was quite a storm that night). They said that she had called her husband to say that she was going for a walk on the beach and then would be coming home. They left flyers for all the residents of our condo with whom they could not speak personally.

    Shortly after that I took my Aussies for a run. I passed the white Subaru that has also been parking in that block for 10 days or so, a guy sleeping in his car. I thought that was the only thing different recently, and I would call after I got home. On the way back, I saw a different pair of detectives knocking on a door, and so I approached them with this. They said the person in question is someone they have spoken with, they are aware of his circumstances, and his story checks out. They also said they had spoken with the people in front of whose house he had been parking, and they said he had been there for 2-3 weeks in the evenings.

    Hope this is helpful in some way.

  • Tracey March 16, 2012 (8:57 pm)

    Dave, Thank you for confirming what CrimeStoppers and Q13 mentioned as to cause of death (“unofficial” as it is at this point). I’m sorry for your loss as a friend and co-worker to Greggette. Please send condolences to her family as well, if you can. It must have been devastating for her father to discuss what happened. Thanks, again.

  • eaglewatch March 16, 2012 (9:09 pm)

    I have seen drug dealing activity along this part of Beach Drive. Perhaps it is the fact that there isn’t clear view from any of the neighborhood houses.

  • Steve March 16, 2012 (9:31 pm)

    Very quiet tonight driving home from Terrible Beauty to Beach Dr. and Orleans at 845pm. Not a soul out on the sidewalks in South Alki…seemed eerily quiet. Everyone in the neighborhood I think is in shock that this could happen here.

  • Beach drive resident March 16, 2012 (9:46 pm)

    @ryan, that’s the same guy i was referring to. He lives in the park and it totally scary. He walks around beach the same times each day 10ish and 7:30ish. He dumpster dives and picks up cigarette butts and looks menacing with his scraggly beard. He is about 6″1-6’2 and 200lbs and wears basketball shoes, long underwear and shorts over the long underwear and a red/orange hooded sweatshirt and a big coat (like football players wear on the sidelines).

  • Mike March 16, 2012 (10:44 pm)

    Not sure if it’s related, but there seemed to be extra police presence around tonight from 35th Westward. Good to see actually.

  • Alki Resident March 16, 2012 (10:55 pm)

    @RYAN-that homeless man has lived for years in the woods above Saltys.He passes my house every day now which he hadn’t before.I didn’t know he moved to Mee-Kwa-Mooks but good to know,this makes him closer to people in the park.He’s always stayed to himself,but i’ve always wanted to know his story or throw him a couple of bucks but don’t know his demeaner so I stay clear of him.

  • 3dogslater March 16, 2012 (11:07 pm)

    Just got home from vacation and very saddened and disturbed by this. My condolences to the family.
    I am at Alki 3-4 times per week I see the homeless man mentioned scavenging through garbage cans and walking the path quite often. I heard he was the one that painted hate slurs at local business’s a couple of years ago but wanted verification. I am reviewing comments here..just for mental notes of awareness and for safety purposes.
    So vehicles suggested here are a black car, van with 2 guys in it…and a White Subaru with a guy living in it. I recall 2 summers ago about the jogger being harrassed and I thought the man was in a truck she mentioned he was sitting in the truck watching her and she caught a glimpse of him whacking off as she jogged by…whatever happened to that? Just got ignored? Same area…

  • Noelle March 16, 2012 (11:15 pm)

    People come from all over to walk around Alki. Its a fun spot, beautiful views, coffee shops and yummy places to grab dinner or lunch . . . I don’t think its odd for any one to make time in their day to stop at the beach at all. Maybe she had other things to do around Seattle and thought walking Alki sounded like a good idea. So sorry to hear this story, my Condolences to her family and friends.

  • anw March 16, 2012 (11:17 pm)

    Great comments, Cheryl! My sentiments exactly. I understand the queries of people trying to figure out how this could have happened, and a scenario that is really hard for us to get our minds around is that it was a random incident. It makes us feel very vulnerable and consider crawling into a cave to keep ourselves and all of our loved ones safe, but that isn’t the way to live. I’m so sorry for the family and friends. It is such a sad situation. I wish them peace, and hope it reminds us all that anything can happen at any time. Tell your loved ones how much you care about them and treasure as much as you can.

  • Kathy March 17, 2012 (8:39 am)

    well said anw; and Noelle; I moved to Renton a year and a half ago from Admiral Junction, but my daughter still lives and walks there. I loved it so much that i still go there weekly or every other week to shop, walk the dog at Lincoln, go to the beach. No ulterior motives here. It is one of the lovliest places I have ever been blessed to be a part of and tho I moved a little further out, I still come back for no other reason than to enjoy the peace and beauty.
    Thank you

  • Rhonda Porter March 17, 2012 (9:06 pm)

    As someone who lives and walks that area of Beach Drive daily, I can say many neighbors are saddened and wondering how this can happen to someone who seems like she could have been our friend, co-worker or neighbor.
    *
    With not a lot of information being released by the police, it’s hard not to speculate… I think it’s “normal” to try to figure it out on earth something like this could ever happen to Ms Guy.
    *
    I have friends who don’t live in the area and LOVE to walk the Beach Drive area when there’s blustery weather and crashing waves.
    *
    That area of BD (the parks) has always made me a little nervous – you’ll see some activity that seems a bit sketchy…and the lower part of the park constantly is being graffiti’d and seems to be a “hang out” of sorts…you never know what you might see if you’re walking above on the sidewalk at almost any hour of the day.
    *
    My heart breaks and goes out to Ms. Guy’s family. I would like to see if we can raise funds to increase the reward money that is being offered to solve this horrific crime. The person(s) who did this crime need to be caught as soon as possible.

  • Morgan March 17, 2012 (10:43 pm)

    Rhonda, I think raising additional money to increase the reward – and thus the awareness of this terrible crime – is a really great idea. I’d certainly donate.

    It’s terrifying and sad beyond comprehension for this lovely woman and her family.

  • West Seattle edge March 17, 2012 (11:20 pm)

    I suggest getting rid of the bathroom depot there if there is ongoing activity with homeless and parties. Seems to work at Lincoln Park which is much bigger in scale.

  • Zach March 17, 2012 (11:40 pm)

    I am extremely sad to hear about this. I love to go to that area of the beach as well as lowman to take walks. I will say I always carry a gun and would put my life at risk to protect anyone I see in danger( Army combat veteran and expert rifleman). I hope that more people learn a form of defense or if your not comfortable with firearms maybe learn to use and carry a knife.

    I hope that her family finds peace and may they heal from the pain of losing a wonderful person.

  • Judy March 18, 2012 (10:09 am)

    Neighbors of Emma Schmitz Park and Me-Kwa-Mooks will gather for a vigil and walk tonight at 7 p.m. at the north end of the park on the waterfront side of Beach Drive. Bring candles or a flashlight (although it will still be light at 7 p.m.) and walk the length of the park with us. We want to remember this sad event and claim the park as safe public space. Please join us.

    • WSB March 18, 2012 (10:13 am)

      Thanks, Judy, we were planning a followup of sorts – even just to say “nothing new from investigators” – in a bit, and will include this. If there is anything additional to share with people, please e-mail us directly at editor@westseattleblog.com – TR

  • jim March 18, 2012 (2:58 pm)

    A few years ago in Richmond, VA, a neighbor family of mine was murdered. The police kept very quiet about information but asked for any leads. It turned out that they had suspects from the get go but wanted to surprise them with an arrest. Burglars can be very smart and elusive but murderers always leave clues. I feel very sure that the police already have a suspect that they are watching while they gather evidence. Most likely there is no reason for any of us to be afraid, but, as always, one must be alert and smart walking at night anywhere, especially in dark remote places. And if you are a woman who does that, go with a dog. There are plenty of dog owners who would love someone to take their dog for a walk.

    • WSB March 18, 2012 (3:27 pm)

      Jim – While I have to emphasize I have no inside information to that effect, I do think your words are wise. I have meant to say in this thread a time or two – and been distracted or diverted to something else – investigators cannot, for many reasons, tell the public everything they know. Sometimes for the type of reason you mention, sometimes because if they disclose details “only known to the killer” etc. – it could lessen the chance for an effective witness that will have a pure memory and will help a jury reach a “guilty” verdict. They are well aware of how worried so many people are and will be until the case is solved. In the past several years, no West Seattle murders have gone unsolved – the Jeremy Peck case from 2010-2011 is still classified as a “suspicious death,” not a murder, so far as we know https://westseattleblog.com/2011/07/new-revelations-in-jeremy-peck-case-search-warrant-unsealed …so that’s what makes this unsettling, but here’s hoping it’s just a matter of time … TR

  • Vicki March 19, 2012 (12:40 am)

    First of all I wish to send my heartfelt condolences to the friends and family of Greggette. If any of her family is reading these, could someone please tell me if this is Greggette that went to Fairmount Park elementary and had a brother named Gregg. There are many of us from that school that are still in contact and remember our Greggette, very fondly! I had to stop reading these as I put myself in the shoes of Greggette’s family and started to bawl! SHAME ON YOU PEOPLE!!!! Please consider the graphic comments you are posting, the facts are not always something we just share over a cup of coffee and the paper, this is a beautiful woman that was taken from her family, much too soon.I could have gotten though my life with out the details some of you provided in such poor taste. What if that were your daughter, your sister, your friend, Dear Lord, I cannot imagine having to read those things. Prayers for Greggette’s family and friends, I am so very sorry for you loss and I am appalled at the people in this forum’s comments, you should not have had to read these things!

    • WSB March 19, 2012 (7:56 am)

      Vicki – since this is last week’s story, I don’t know if the comments are getting much traffic, but from research, I do know that Ms. Guy had a brother named Gregg (named after their father, I believe he was a “Jr.”) … TR

  • BjA March 19, 2012 (9:41 am)

    Although this is last week’s story, it seems like yesterday that this horrible tragedy occurred. I keep hoping to see some more information posted out her giving us a sense that progress is being made to find Greggette’s murderer to bring full circle closure. I’m sure this will help many of us sleep better at night! Please keep updating regularly.

    • WSB March 19, 2012 (10:46 am)

      I noted in last night’s vigil report that police were circulating in the area, talking to people, still looking for more information. Believe me, they will not say anything about their progress until and unless they have an arrest to report or a suspect they need help finding … but we’ll continue checking.

  • female dog walker March 19, 2012 (11:34 pm)

    Please ladies! A dog does not make you safe. Although it makes you a less-likely target since somewhat without a dog is “easier”, in a quiet park with no one around a dog can be kicked, stabbed or shot as easily as you can.
    Unless your dog knows how to dial 911 and carries his own phone, don’t get a false sense of security. Best to walk in a group or wait until it’s light out.

  • michael March 19, 2012 (11:35 pm)

    It is a shame that we cant feel safe in our own neighborhood! Is it going to get worse if less people are out? I think staying indoors will just make these criminals feel more welcome! They cant hurt all of us so we need to stick together as a community and not forget this tragic event

  • Vicki March 20, 2012 (1:06 am)

    If Gregg is a Facebook user I would like to invite him and any other former employees or students to join us at the Fairmount Park Elementary page. There are quite a few of us from Greggette’s year and some class photos, one that has her in it. We are all saddened by this news, Praying for you all

  • LMA March 22, 2012 (3:15 pm)

    any up date on this? This is so scary

    • WSB March 22, 2012 (3:25 pm)

      Nope. Not since Tuesday night’s West Seattle Crime Prevention Council meeting. It could be solved soon … or it could take a while. We were looking back at other West Seattle cases; you might recall the murder of Steve Bushaw – he was killed in early 2009, suspects were arrested that fall, and tried in 2011.

  • lovebeachdrive March 23, 2012 (1:11 am)

    Hello,
    I’ve been following this thread for new updates ever since this sad and shocking incident happened.
    First, my sincere condolences to Ms. Guy’s family.

    I’ve just read on some newspaper that the Police is indicating that this was NOT random.
    Is that true?
    I understand that Police is doing the best they can do to solve this case and they cannot release all the information they have but at least I wish they would tell us if they know for sure if this was random or not.
    I have not walked outside by myself alone ever since this happened as I heard that there was a chance that this was random and obviously, the killer is still out there somewhere.

    • WSB March 23, 2012 (8:17 am)

      Love BD – I believe I know what you are referring to. I covered the exact same meeting that report came from and have not only the transcription of what Capt. Paulsen said, but also the unedited video. Watch the video and read the transcription for yourself:
      .
      https://westseattleblog.com/2012/03/happening-now-beach-drive-murder-discussed-west-seattle-crime-prevention-council
      .
      I will not comment on someone else’s work but as a 30-year veteran journalist, I will tell you that in matters this sensitive, trying to interpret or draw an inference can be precarious. We stick to the *facts*. The facts here are that police said what they said, and you can listen to it for yourself via our video. And there are two larger facts over everything: A woman was murdered, and police have not announced an arrest.
      .
      TR

  • Cls March 23, 2012 (11:08 am)

    This is such a sad story,

    I want to thank everyone who posted comments on this blog. I didn’t think any comments were offensive or insensitive in any way. It is important for those of us who walk our dogs, ride our bikes or run in this neighborhood to know as many details as possible so we can help solve the crime.

  • arborheightsfriend March 23, 2012 (3:30 pm)

    I believe the insensitive comments were ones inferring Mrs. Guy’s behavior was suspicious for walking in this neighborhood. One comment concluded other parks or Dash Point is closer to her neighborhood, and it was perhaps shady of her to be on these paths rather than some place near her home in Kent. That is akin to suggesting if you hike Mt. Rainier, beachcomb on the shores of the Pacific, camp in the Columbia River valley, shop in the U District, yet don’t live in those areas – your presence is suspicious. Beach Drive is known for its beauty and sumptuous views. As a personal friend of Greggette’s I am so offended by the paranoia and pointing of fingers in her direction. She was the epitome of an upstanding giving citizen, a devoted mother, girl scout troop leader, and wife who loved the outdoors and her former neighborhood. Would it be less questionable if the victim lived on Alki? This crime is repulsive, and victim blaming is unthinkable. Please dear neighbors, hold good thoughts for this family and our community.

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