Missing Principal Found Dead In Washington: Sheriff

TROUTDALE, OR — The incoming principal for the Multnomah Learning Academy Middle School was reportedly found dead Wednesday morning following a one-day search in Cowlitz County, Washington. Enrique "Henry" Ramirez was reported missing when he didn't show up for an appointment Tuesday morning.

Ramirez, 51, reportedly told a friend Monday night that he planned to take a jog the next morning. Ramirez was known to take runs around his home in the 400-block of Frederickson Road, which is about 7 miles east of Woodland, Washington. But concern arose when Ramirez did not appear for a 10:30 a.m. meeting on Aug. 21.

Cowlitz County search and rescue teams searched late into the night Tuesday but couldn't find any trace of Ramirez, though they said there wasn't any reason to think foul play was involved in his disappearance.

The search resumed Wednesday morning, and shortly after 9 a.m. Ramirez was found about one mile from the end of the paved portion of Fredrickson Road, Cowlitz County Sheriff's officials said, noting again that his death was not believed to be suspicious in nature.

"Henry was part of the Reynolds School District family as the previous Principal of Salish Ponds Elementary School and Assistant Principal of HB Lee Middle School, and the incoming Principal of Multnomah Learning Academy Middle School, a Reynolds School District charter school," Reynolds School District spokeswoman Stephanie Field said in a statement. "We are currently mobilizing support services for staff and families to respond to their emotional needs surrounding this event. Our thoughts are with Henry’s family during this difficult time."

Ramirez recently shared his introduction message with MLA students and parents on the charter school's website.

"I believe all students can and will succeed. It is my job to support staff and students to make sure this happens," Ramirez wrote in part. "My door is always open, and I look forward to working with you all in the coming year."

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Image via Cowlitz County Sheriff's Office