The discovery of a missing Oregon hiker ended in tragedy after her husband was arrested and charged with second-degree murder in the case. The dead woman, identified as Susan Lane-Fournier, 61, was found on November 29, six days after she went missing, which led to an aggressive search by both the authorities and volunteers.
Susan Lane-Fournier was an avid hiker. She was reported missing November 22 when she did not come to work and two of her dogs disappeared as well. Searches have been carried out in the areas for four days by CCSO search teams and then suspended on Friday because of adverse weather conditions, and the chances of survival are nil.
Her white 1992 Ford F-250 was discovered abandoned on November 23, near East Salmon River Road and Green Canyon Way Trail in the Welches area. That gave fresh hope for her rescue but instead led to the sad discovery of her remains. Search efforts culminated on November 29 when Susan’s body was located four miles from her truck near East Highway 26 and East Miller Road.
Husband Charged in Marital Discord
Michel Fournier, 71 years old, was arrested shortly after his wife’s body was discovered, and he is currently being detained without bail on charges of second degree murder. According to court records, Susan filed a divorce application against Michel on Oct. 31st, citing irreconcilable differences after 12 years of marriage.
The details that emerged around the case showed the marriage of the couple was troubled in the months leading up to Susan’s disappearance. Investigators are piecing together evidence to determine what happened to her. Ongoing Search for Dogs and Community Impact
Her two big Malinois-mix dogs, however, remain missing and have been continually looked for by friends and other community members. Friends say the loyal dogs were protectors of her that anyone could see on hikes with her.
The disappearance and then the recovery of Susan’s body sent shockwaves through the Welches community. Volunteers gave over 800 hours to the search effort-a deep show of concern and unity among locals.
Susan Lane-Fournier was a kind and loving soul, one of a kind, and her passing has left this tight mountain community under a dark cloud. It has left people asking a lot of questions; it is just hard to believe that such a dear friend can be gone.
As the police continue with their inquiries to piece together the totality of this heinous act, justice will be brought for Susan, and the community supported through these tragic times.
