UPDATE: Welfare Check Turns to Homicide Investigation
(GRESHAM, Ore) — Gresham police detectives and the East County Major Crimes Team are attempting to locate Teddy Stivahtis Jr., 36, now considered a suspect in the Oct. 10 stabbing murder of Deanna Stivahtis.
Teddy, who is Deanna's nephew, was seen driving Deanna's van away from her residence before her body was discovered.
Teddy is described as a white male with hazel eyes and short brown hair.
He is approximately 5-feet-9-inches tall and 165 pounds.
The homicide investigation is ongoing.
On Oct. 13, 2014, Teddy used a demand note to rob a Chase Bank branch at the Fred Meyer, 1401 S.E. First Ave, Canby, Ore. He fled the area on foot with an undisclosed amount of cash.
Canby Police Department contacted Gresham detectives with the information and is working with the East County Major Crimes Team and FBI to apprehend Teddy.
Police warn Teddy should be considered armed and dangerous, asking the public to call 911 immediately if he is seen.
Deanna's 1989 dark green Dodge Caravan, with extensive damage on the passenger side, is still missing.
If the vehicle is seen, police warn to call 911 immediately and not attempt to contact the occupants.
If anybody has information regarding a possible location of Teddy or the vehicle, they are asked to call the Gresham Police Tip Line at 503.618.2719.
Messages can be left anonymously.
