Yakov Ger, a 36-year-old White/Caucasian man and a construction worker who had immigrated from Russia, was last known to have been heard from on August 10, 2003. His case took a grim turn when buried remains located in Cowlitz County woods were excavated on May 3, 2004. Autopsy results determined he died of multiple stab wounds, and his body had been deliberately concealed in a remote, wooded area.

The circumstances of what happened during the months between his last contact and the discovery remain unclear. If anyone knew Yakov, saw him after August 10, 2003, or has information about activity in those Cowlitz County woods during that time, please come forward.