PORTLAND, OR – An 80-year-old woman, Judy Hurley, was found dead in a horrific case involving squatting and murder after her home was overtaken by intruders. Her remains were discovered in a suitcase by the Willamette River, leaving law enforcement on a chilling investigation to uncover how she met her tragic end.

Hurley, described by acquaintances as a solitary figure with no immediate family or friends, had left her home in Portland’s St. John’s neighborhood to reside in a retirement facility. This move came after Justin Misner and Leslie Ortiz, who expressed a desire to purchase her property, helped her transition there.

According to Misner, they bonded with Hurley during this time, assisting her with medical appointments and other necessities, leading Hurley to express her gratitude by considering them as family.

The elderly woman’s return home was precipitated by health concerns that necessitated her leaving the retirement home. Hurley’s return was marred by increasing vulnerability due to her bedridden state, leaving her unable to prevent unauthorized occupants from infiltrating her home.

Squatters allegedly set up on the second floor, transforming her residence into a hideout for criminal activities, according to friends.

Details surrounding the timeline of Hurley’s death are murky. Authorities reported discovering her body on February 17, and subsequent investigations confirmed she died from a homicide. The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, through collected evidence, established probable cause linking 54-year-old Michael Moody to the crime. Moody was arrested and faces charges of second-degree murder and corpse abuse, with more court appearances scheduled.

Misner and Ortiz believe Hurley’s generous nature might have made her a target for exploitation. They voiced their sorrow about her untimely death, emphasizing the kindness she had extended to those around her, a quality that might have led to her tragic fate.

Law enforcement continues its probe into the incident, seeking further information on the circumstances that led to Hurley’s brutal death. Meanwhile, the community reflects on the vulnerabilities faced by the elderly and the tragic consequences that can arise from them. Moody’s impending court date on March 3 holds hope for justice in a case that has shaken many.