Oregon City, OR – A tragic culmination of domestic unrest has led to a life sentence for an Oregon man, who admitted to killing his girlfriend and disposing of her body in a remote forest. The sentencing occurred this week at the Clackamas County Circuit Court, marking a somber conclusion to a case that has deeply affected a community.
William Glen Blake, 56, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in the death of 38-year-old Jennifer Ruth Stuart. The incident occurred during a heated altercation inside the couple’s home in Oregon City. Following his plea, Blake was sentenced to life imprisonment, with eligibility for parole after serving 25 years.
According to law enforcement officials, the murder unfolded on August 14, at the couple’s residence on Hilltop Lane. The argument escalated, leading Blake to fatally shoot Stuart. He then left the scene to purchase several items – a large plastic tote, garbage bags, and gloves – believed by investigators to be used in concealing and transporting Stuart’s remains.
In a chilling sequence of events captured by surveillance cameras, Blake was seen visiting a local hardware store immediately after the murder, and subsequently near the location in the Mount Hood National Forest where he abandoned Stuart’s remains. Initially, Blake had hidden her body in the tote, but later disposed of it openly in the woods to prevent any direct connection to him.
Stuart’s body was discovered approximately two weeks later by hunters, who noticed turkey vultures circling an unusual site. They alerted the authorities who identified Stuart through fingerprint analysis. An autopsy later revealed that she died from a gunshot wound to the lower torso.
During the investigation, police focused on Blake, following reports and evidence suggesting a history of physical abuse against Stuart. A search of Blake’s residence led to the discovery of the tote used to transport Stuart’s body, and his arrest followed shortly. Blake confessed to the crime during police interrogation.
Further complicating the tragedy, investigators believe Blake’s teenage son, then aged 15, may have helped his father in moving Stuart’s body. The teen was subsequently arrested and faces charges of abuse of a corpse and tampering with physical evidence. He is currently being held at the Clackamas County Juvenile Intake and Assessment Center, awaiting further proceedings.
Family members, especially Stuart’s mother, expressed profound grief and shock in court over the brutal nature of the murder and the callous disposal of her body. This case underscores the harsh reality and potential escalation of domestic violence.
Blake will carry out his sentence at a state correctional facility. The ongoing investigation leaves open the potential for additional charges as new details might emerge. This case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impacts of domestic abuse and the importance of addressing such violence promptly and effectively.