Stevens County authorities have charged Charles Lloyd Tatom with first-degree murder in the 1997 deaths of Marlene Emerson and her daughter Cassie. The charges were announced by Stevens County Prosecuting Attorney Erika George and U.S. Attorney Vanessa R. Waldref, following new DNA evidence uncovered during an extensive investigation.
The tragic events unfolded on June 27, 1997, when firefighters responded to a blaze at a mobile home in Colville, Washington. Upon extinguishing the fire, they discovered Marlene Emerson's remains inside. An autopsy revealed she died from knife wounds to the neck, and investigators determined gasoline had been used to start the fire.
Cassie Emerson was initially missing but found deceased a month later in a wooded area near Orin Rice Road. Her body also showed knife wounds.
Investigators focused on Tatom after reports surfaced about his Chevy Blazer being seen near the scene around the time of the incident. A forensic examination of the vehicle uncovered blood stains linked to Cassie through DNA analysis.
Witnesses reported seeing Tatom take gasoline cans from his residence before the fire and observed him with singed hair and burns afterward. Additional testimony mentioned Tatom hiding a blood-stained knife and disposing of seat covers from his vehicle post-fire.
If convicted, Tatom faces life imprisonment for aggravated first-degree murder charges.
Erika George expressed gratitude for law enforcement's dedication over two decades: “I am grateful for the law enforcement agents and officers, who have dedicated more than two decades of their careers to identifying those responsible for Marlene and Cassie’s murders.”
U.S. Attorney Vanessa R. Waldref highlighted collaboration among agencies: “One of my top priorities as U.S. Attorney has been to strengthen our relationship with state, local, and Tribal law enforcement.”
The investigation involved multiple agencies including Stevens County Sheriff’s Office, Washington State Patrol, ATF, and FBI. The case is being prosecuted by Erika George with assistance from federal prosecutors Earl Hicks and Timothy Ohms.
A probable cause statement is available online for further details on this case.