JOHN DAY, Ore. – Authorities in Grant County are on the lookout for a suspect in connection with the death of a woman discovered at the John Day Motel, as reported by the Grant County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies were initially called to conduct a welfare check at a residence on Northwest 7th Street in John Day, only to find the home unoccupied. Following this, staff at the John Day Motel alerted authorities to a disturbing discovery within one of the rooms – the lifeless body of a woman.
The individual believed to be involved in the incident has been identified as 42-year-old Gary Dylan Cavan, known to have ties with the deceased woman and to the home on Northwest Seventh Street. Investigators discovered that Cavan had fled the area, and his current whereabouts are unknown, with his last sighting reported in Baker City. Authorities are urging anyone with information on Cavan’s whereabouts or details concerning the case to reach out to detective Zac Downing with the Oregon State Police at 541-519-3634.
Described as 6 feet 2 inches in height, weighing approximately 215 pounds, with blonde hair and blue eyes, Cavan is considered armed and dangerous by authorities, who advise the public against approaching him. The circumstances surrounding the woman’s death remain under investigation as law enforcement continues to pursue leads to apprehend the suspect. The community in John Day is urged to remain vigilant and cooperative with authorities as they work to bring closure to this tragic event.