La Pine Man Arrested in Mother’s Homicide
Deschutes County deputies say suspect reported involvement in killing before arrest early Monday
LA PINE, Ore. — A La Pine man has been arrested in connection with the death of his mother following an early morning investigation by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office.
According to authorities, deputies responded shortly after 2:00 a.m. Monday to a report of suspicious circumstances at Gordy’s Truck Stop in La Pine, where they contacted 25-year-old Gavaughn Bates.
During that contact, deputies determined Bates was a suspect in the homicide of his mother at their shared residence on Woodstock Drive.
Deputies then responded to the residence, where they located a deceased woman identified as 56-year-old ErmaJean McGillicuddy of La Pine.
Investigators also learned that two juveniles were present inside the home during the incident and witnessed part of the altercation leading up to the homicide. Authorities said the children were safely removed from the residence and connected with support services.
Detectives with the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office are leading the investigation.
Bates was taken into custody and lodged at the Deschutes County Adult Jail on the following charges:
Murder
Assault I (Aggravated)
Strangulation — Assault Witnessed by a Child
Officials say there is no ongoing threat to the community.
The investigation remains active and has been referred to the Deschutes County District Attorney’s Office.
