Man arrested after woman's body found southeast of Sumas

MOUNT VERNON — A woman has been found dead about 20 miles northeast of Bellingham, and a man is being held for investigation of homicide.

According to a news release Tuesday from Skagit County Undersheriff Wayne W. Dowhaniuk, the woman is believed to be 45-year-old Dawn Ruger. A friend reported her missing in January 2007, saying she never came to pick up her welfare checks.

Information obtained by Bellingham police led to the discovery of the decomposed remains in Paradise Valley, southeast of Sumas. Dowhaniuk won't say whether a weapon or other evidence was found, and the cause of death remains under investigation.

Following the discovery a 28-year-old man was arrested and jailed in Skagit County. Dowhaniuk said the man is believed to be the last person who saw Ruger alive.