Death Investigation in Southern Oregon, May 26

An autopsy Tuesday, May 20, by the Oregon State Medical Examiner’s Office indicated the death of a 43-year old man found deceased May 16, 2014, was the result of an accidental gunshot wound to the abdomen.  According to Sergeant Jeff Fitzgerald, on May 16, 2104 at approximately 3:46 p.m., OSP and Josephine County Sheriff’s Office were notified that the body of a deceased male was found near a creek on property in the 4800 block of Demaray Drive. OSP troopers and detectives, along with the Josephine County Major Crime Team, responded to investigate. The deceased male was identified as JOHNNY NEILE HAMLIN, age 43. HAMLIN was reportedly a caretaker at the property where he lived in a recreational trailer. A shotgun was found lying near his body. Investigators believe HAMLIN may have been intoxicated and found no evidence indicating foul play or that his death was intentional.  The Josephine County Major Crime Team is comprised of members from OSP, Josephine County Sheriff’s Office, Grants Pass Department of Public Safety and Josephine County District Attorney’s Office. OSP detectives led the investigation.