CCSO release – On April 12th, 2019 at about 1:48 AM, Coos County Deputies were dispatched to Hummingbird Lane in North Bend for a report of an assault. While en route, Deputies were notified that the suspect had left the residence prior to their arrival. Dispatch also advised the suspect had a dog with him when he left the residence. North Bend Police Department responded after a request for mutual aid. While searching the area for the suspect, Deputies found the dog under the McCullough bridge, standing on a small ledge. Two Deputies and Officers from North Bend continued the search, while one Deputy responded to the residence for investigative purposes. While at the residence, the Deputy learned that the victim had offered the man, later identified as Damien E. Austin a place to stay for the night. The victim explained that she had turned away from the suspect, who had grabbed her from behind and had her in a choke hold, cutting off her air supply. The victim showed signs of an altercation, exhibiting abrasions to her neck and arms, as well as some small evidence of bleeding. After confirming the victim did not require further medical care, the Deputy left the residence to continue the search. A Coos County Marine Deputy was called out, as was the Coast Guard and the North Bend Fire Department, who responded in a boat to search the waters, with another North Bend Officer on board. North Bend Fire was able to find the dog, who was rescued safely and transported to the Coos County Animal Shelter safely. Despite continuing the search into daylight hours, Officers were unable to find the suspect. At about 6:00 PM on April 16th, Deputies responded to recover Mr. Damien, who had been located deceased in the water under the McCullough Bridge.
