Moses Lake, Wash. — The Grant County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a 52-year-old man in connection with the homicide of his father discovered Tuesday at a rural Moses Lake residence.
The suspect, Joel R. Koch, was booked into Grant County Jail on a charge of murder in the second degree — domestic violence, according to the Sheriff’s Office. The victim, Jerry R. Koch, 79, was found at a home in the 8900 block of Travis Drive, Unit B.
Deputies and detectives responded at approximately 12:39 p.m. on Sept. 1 after receiving a report of a deceased male. The victim’s daughter made the initial report, telling dispatchers she believed her brother was responsible.
While investigators were on scene, the suspect returned to the residence and was detained without incident. Detectives observed evidence linking him to the crime, and he made statements that further implicated him, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
Investigators obtained search warrants and recovered evidence consistent with a violent assault. They also obtained home security video footage from a neighbor documenting the suspect’s movements the night before and morning of the incident.
Grant County Mental Health Services had scheduled a mental health pickup order for the suspect for the same day due to a recent decline in his mental health condition, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
“This is a tragic incident for the family and our community,” Sheriff Joey Kriete said. “Our deputies and detectives are working diligently to ensure this case is thoroughly investigated. We extend our deepest condolences to those affected.”
The Grant County Coroner’s Office will conduct an autopsy to determine the official cause and manner of death. The case remains under investigation, and no additional suspects are being sought.
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