Body found near Wallaula Gap identified as homeless Missouri man

By Griffin Beach on Friday, June 6th, 2025 in Columbia Basin News Columbia Basin Top Stories

BENTON COUNTY, WA – The Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) have identified the man found deceased in Mound Pond on the north shore of the Columbia River near Wallula Gap as 40-year-old Gregory L. Vanhooser.

Vanhooser’s body was discovered on May 24, it appeared at the time of discovery that he had been deceased for several days.

According to BCSO Vanhooser was a native of Missouri but had recent history in the Tri-Cities area. He was known to be homeless and frequented the Union Gospel Mission in Pasco. He was last seen on or about March 20, and information on his last known whereabouts were that he was possibly seeking employment in a Burbank area orchard.

An autopsy performed on May 29 did not reveal any evidence that the death was caused by homicidal means. Additional microscopic testing is being performed to determine the cause of death.

BCSO has contacted next of kin.

The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information regarding Vanhooser’s whereabouts is asked to contact Det. Tomren or Sgt. Gonzalez with the BCSO at 509-735-6555.

Wallula Gap photo via Dan Thesman