Battle Ground police identify suspect in double homicide investigation

The Battle Ground Police Department is actively investigating a double homicide that occurred on June 3.

Officers discovered two dead individuals, a male and a female, both in their late 30s, inside a house on NE 2nd Avenue.

A third individual, Evaristo “Junior” Vela, 40, was found at the scene and transported to a local hospital in critical condition.

Detectives have served two search warrants as part of the ongoing investigation.

Evidence obtained has led to the identification of Evaristo “Junior” Vela as the suspect in both homicides.

PAST COVERAGE: 2 people found dead in Battle Ground home, police investigate as double homicide

The case will now be forwarded to the Clark County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for review.

"I can tell you that the two deceased are both adults," Chief Flynn said on June 3. "There is a male and a female. We do believe that at least two are familial, and we don't know the relationship of the third person."

"It's our belief that the person who lives here, we think, has only moved in here in the last month or two," Flynn added.

Vela remains under medical care in an area hospital, with no update on his condition.

The chief told KATU that this is the first homicide investigation in Battle Ground in five years.

Authorities confirmed there is no history of prior police service calls to the residence, and no additional suspects are wanted in connection with the case.

Due to the ongoing nature of the investigation, no further details are available at this time.