In the pre-dawn hours of September 4, 2008, two fires were reported along Dead Indian Memorial Road near Ashland, Oregon. The first burned an empty seasonal cabin. About an hour later, a second blaze five miles away completely consumed the cabin of 46-year-old David Edwin Lewis. Firefighters found his body in the charred remains, and investigators determined he had been killed before the fire was set; the arson appears to have been used to conceal the homicide. Authorities suspect the first fire was a diversion to draw attention away from David’s home.

David, known as Fish Hook for his fishing skill, was a father of three and a wildland firefighter described as resourceful and artistic. DNA from his sister and eldest son was used to confirm his identity because the fire’s damage was severe. No suspects have been publicly named and no arrests have been announced; the Jackson County Cold Case Team is seeking leads and the family has offered a reward.

If anyone knew David, his routines, or saw suspicious activity on Dead Indian Memorial Road around September 4, 2008, please come forward with information.