Body found in construction hole

By Terry Murry on Monday, November 14th, 2022 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

HERMISTON – The body of a 49-year-old man who was new to the Hermiston area was found deceased in his vehicle at the bottom of a large hole created by construction on North First Place in Hermiston. While the remains of Shawn Price were found on Sunday, police believe his vehicle went into the hole the day before.

“We believe, based on evidence still being analyzed, that it may have taken place Saturday evening between 10 and 11,” Police Chief Jason Edmiston wrote.

He said Price’s family was tracked down to Kentucky and notified of the death. Investigators suspect alcohol might have been a contributing factor and are awaiting the results of an autopsy.

Hermiston Assistant City Manager Mark Morgan said the hole is about 30 feet deep. He added that the contractor had posted numerous signs and lights to warn of the construction. The construction project redevelops North First Place from West Hermiston Avenue north to West Elm Avenue.

The picture below of the hole in question is provided by the city of Hermiston, taken on Oct. 12