The chief of police at Cowlitz Tribe was dead from self -inflicted shot, which is bound to possible sexual crimes

Charles Gardiner, police chief of Cowlitz Tribe, was found dead in his car in his car last week in his car.

Clark County's office has now opened double investigations, leading to a possible sexual crime.

The investigation began on April 24, after a homeowner named 911 had reported an intruder in his house shortly before 10 p.m.

“There was a physical argument between the caller and the topic,” said Sergeant Chris Skidmore by Clark County Sheriff. “Then the subject could flee from the residence on foot.”

When the MPs arrived, they found Gardiner dead in his car. The homeowner identified as an intruder.

Police opened criminal investigations against Cowlitz Tribe Police Chief

Further investigations showed more evidence against Gardiner who prompted MPs to open a second examination.

“There is the death examination, which indicates that everything matches suicide, but then the Sheriff's office announced that we will open a criminal investigation into several sexual crimes committed by Gardiner,” said Skidmore.

The investigators said they were talking to a youthful victim whose identity they want to keep anonymously.

“We try to be very careful,” said Skidmore. “We have a youthful sacrifice here who brings with it possible sex crimes, and therefore we want to be very careful not to identify the people.”

Gardiner was a veteran of the US Army and spent 25 years at Washington State Patrol.

“I think that is surprising for everyone in the community,” said Skidmore. “Of course I am definitely surprised as a law enforcement.”

Follow James Lynch X. Read more of his stories here. Send news tips here.

Follow @james_kiroradio