Man in burned house is identified

By Terry Murry on Tuesday, May 23rd, 2023 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

PENDLETON – An autopsy was conducted on the person found in the burned residence at 628 S. Main St. last week. Police Chief Chuck Byram said the Oregon State Police Medical Examiner’s Office reports he died due to injuries related to the fire. He was identified as James M. Barlow, a 36-year-old transient.

Police tracked down Barlow’s next of kin in Pennsylvania and notified them of his passing. The tip that sent police to the burned-out home on May 15 came from a person who had heard Barlow was inside the residence and had not seen him after the fire.

Byram said the man told Sgt. Roger Youncs that a homeless female had been in the vacant house and had seen Barlow inside, burning several candles, in a room on the first floor. The witness confirmed seeing Barlow to police, describing him as being in a manic state.

“The witness advised that she tried to get Mr. Barlow to put out the candles, but due to his manic state he refused, so she left,” Byram stated.

Barlow’s identity was confirmed by the witness as well as clothing and jewelry found on his body.