Police identify suspect in Des Moines, WA condo murder case

DES MOINES, Wash. - Police have identified a suspect linked to a murder that happened at a condominium complex in Des Moines in early August.

The Des Moines Police Department (DMPD) reports that on August 4, officers were dispatched to a complex near the intersection of S 219th St. and 7th Ave. S upon receiving a report of a person down.

Police have identified a suspect in connection to a murder that happened at a Des Moines condominium complex in early August. According to the Des Moines Police Department (DMPD), on Aug. 4, officers responded to the complex near the corner of S 219 St. and 7th Ave. S for a report of a person down. When officers arrived, they found the victim, Marla Knigge, dead with significant head and face injuries. DMPD detectives and the Washington State Patrol Crime Lab conducted a thorough investigation at the scene and collected several pieces of evidence including DNA. On Oct. 21, the results from the DNA identified Jake Berman as the suspect. Detectives have developed probable cause to forward second-degree murder charges to the King County Prosecutor’s Office. Berman has a lengthy criminal record and is already in custody for an unrelated charge.

Jake Berman (Des Moines Police Department)

Upon arrival, officers discovered Marla Knigge deceased with severe injuries to her head and face.

DMPD detectives, in collaboration with the Washington State Patrol Crime Lab, conducted a thorough investigation at the site, gathering multiple pieces of evidence — including DNA.

On October 21, DNA analysis revealed Jake Berman as the suspect.

With sufficient evidence, detectives are preparing to submit a case for second-degree murder charges against Berman to the King County Prosecutor's Office.

Berman, with an extensive criminal history, is currently in custody on an unrelated charge.

"The Des Moines Police Department is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Marla Knigge," wrote the DMPD in a Friday press release. "Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to her family, friends and all those affected during this incredibly difficult time. We stand with the community in mourning, and our commitment to seeking justice remains unwavering."

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