Cornelius Death Investigation Concludes

Posted November 9, 2026

The Oregon State Police Forensic Services Division completed DNA comparison testing and provided results to the Washington County Violent Crimes Unit on May 25, 2026. Detectives requested the testing as part of a comprehensive investigation into the deaths of Phuong Le and her three children in Cornelius in April 2025.

Although investigators believed early in the case that Phuong Le had killed her children before taking her own life, DNA testing was conducted on evidence collected at the scene to rule out other possibilities and ensure the findings were supported by all available forensic evidence.

On November 3, 2026, the District Attorney's Office notified the Sheriff's Office that they completed an extensive review of the investigation and determined the findings were consistent with the detective's findings.

With all investigative and review processes now complete, the case has been closed. The Sheriff's Office recognizes the profound impact this tragedy had on the family, friends, and the broader community. We hope the conclusion of this investigation provides some measure of closure to those affected, and we appreciate the community's patience as investigators worked to ensure a thorough and complete review of the evidence.

Media Release Update: Identities of Deceased Cornelius Family Released

Detectives with the Washington County Sheriff's Office Violent Crimes Unit are leading the investigation into the deaths of a mother and three children found yesterday, April 8, at about 3:00 p.m. in Cornelius.

The family has been notified of their deaths, and their names are being released:

• 37-year-old Hong Phuong Le
• 7-year-old-son Thanh Tien Dam
• 5-year-old-daughter Ha Ngan Dam
• 2-year-old-daughter Viena Mai Dam

The Sheriff's Office is in contact with the Forest Grove School District, ensuring timely communication reaches students, teachers, and personnel impacted by this tragic story.

The investigation is still in the early stages, and the release of information will be limited.

Detectives are asking for any information the community may have that could further the investigation, including personal or professional connections. If you have information about this case or a connection with the family, please contact the investigations division at 503-846-2500 and reference case number 50-25-4892.

Original Release: Investigation Underway into the Deaths of Four People in Cornelius

April 8, 2025

On Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at 3:03 p.m., Washington County Sheriff's Office (WCSO) deputies serving the city of Cornelius responded to a home near the 300 block of North 15th Avenue. A 911 caller reported finding four people deceased at the home.

Arriving deputies found the bodies of a 37-year-old woman and her three children, ages 2, 5, and 7. Their identities are not being released at this time. Detectives with the Violent Crimes Unit are assisting in the investigation, and additional information will be released later.

Investigators do not believe there is a danger to the public. If you have information about this case, please contact the WCSO Investigations Division at 503-846-2500 and reference case number 50-25-4892.

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