Suspect descriptions released in murder of hotel owner

Suspect descriptions released in murder of hotel owner

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By KATU News and KATU.com Staff

HOOD RIVER, Ore. – Police released descriptions of two suspects Tuesday who they said killed Vagabond Motel owner Jerry Cranmer Sept. 10.

The first suspect is a man described as dark skinned, in his early 20s, between 5 feet 5 inches and 5 feet 7 inches tall with a thin face, and wiry hair.

The second suspect is woman who is described as dark skinned, with similar weight and height as the man, with dark hair and some acne scarring her face.

Cranmer's family is offering a $5,000 reward to find his killers.

Police said the 54-year-old was discovered by his 16-year-old son at about 9:20 in the office of the Vagabond Hotel.

A deputy, who said he had known the victim for a long time, originally said that robbery did not appear to be a motive because money was left in the cash drawer in the office. However, investigators from Hood River city, county and state police provided KATU with an update after "complete processing" of the scene.

"The final processing revealed $300-plus missing from the back-up till," reports a release from the Hood River County Sheriff's Office. Investigators continue to interview motel guests and others associated with the event. Anyone with information relevant to this event is asked to contact Hood River County Sheriff's Office at (541) 386-2711.

Investigators said Cranmer was shot some time Thursday evening. Deputies have not released any suspect information and said an investigation is under way.

The Vagabond Lodge is a popular stop for travelers off the beaten path in Hood River and is considered a local institution.

Friends of Cranmer said he opened his doors to everyone, offering a place to stay to those who couldn’t afford it.

“His generosity, integrity, kindness … touches my heart,” said Mary Gumm. “They just stand out so much above other people, and I feel so fortunate to have him in my life so long.”

According to the Vagabond’s Web site, the lodge has been locally owned by the Cranmers since it opened.

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