Washington State authorities are investigating the tragic death of 31-year-old Courtney Clinton, whose body was found in a parked car alongside her unharmed young child. Police discovered Clinton in Vancouver, Washington, early on the morning of Thursday, November 7, after responding to a call about a deceased woman.
Vancouver Police Department issued a statement detailing their findings, including the presence of a small, seemingly uninjured child in the car with her. While authorities did not initially release Clinton’s identity, her family confirmed it in a GoFundMe post, and her name was later verified by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. According to KOIN, Clinton’s child, identified by family members as her 1-year-old son, was found unharmed in the vehicle.
A preliminary examination by the Clark County Medical Examiner revealed that Clinton had died from “incised wounds of the neck.” According to multiple reports, The Oregonian, her death was officially determined to be caused by these cut wounds, which have raised concerns about potential foul play. Police have not yet released further information regarding possible suspects or motives, but the investigation is ongoing.
The tragedy comes just a few months after the Clinton family endured another devastating loss. Clinton’s brother, Donte Eugene Mathis, 25, was found dead on July 6 in a motel parking lot in Portland, Oregon, after suffering a fatal gunshot wound. The Portland Police Bureau identified Mathis and investigated his death as a homicide. On her Facebook page, Clinton had posted a touching tribute to her brother, sharing pictures and writing “Rest in peace baby boy” alongside the date of his death, which matched police records.
This double tragedy has left the family reeling, facing the loss of two loved ones within a few short months. Clinton, a Portland resident, lived just under 10 miles from where her body was found in Vancouver. Her sister, in the GoFundMe campaign set up to help support Clinton’s three children, described her as a loving and generous person.
“Courtney was known for her immense love and generosity, always willing to lend a helping hand or offer a listening ear to those around her,” her sister wrote. The post also expressed the family’s hope to give her a meaningful farewell, reflecting the warmth and kindness she shared with those around her.
In light of the investigation, the Vancouver Police Department has requested assistance from the public. Anyone with information related to the case is urged to contact their tip line at (360) 487-7399. Authorities continue to seek answers in the hope of bringing clarity and justice to Clinton’s family during this difficult time.
This tragedy has not only impacted Clinton’s family but also her community, which is mourning a woman remembered for her compassion and generosity. As police work to piece together the circumstances surrounding her death, Clinton’s family and friends are coming together to remember her and support her children.