An 80-year-old bedridden woman, Judy Hurley, was murdered in her Oregon home and later stuffed into a suitcase after squatters took over her house. Authorities say the intruders used her home as a base for criminal activities, including her killing and the abuse of her remains.
Man Arrested for Murder
Michael Moody, 54, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder in connection to Hurley’s death.
“She didn’t even know who was living there,” said Justin Misner, a man who had helped Hurley in her later years.
Misner’s partner, Leslie Ortiz, expressed her shock and sadness.
“I was disgusted. It’s horrible,” she said. “Nobody deserves to go that way, no matter their past.”
How the Neighbors Met Hurley
Misner and Ortiz first met Hurley in early 2024 when they showed interest in buying her home on North Syracuse Street in the St. John’s neighborhood of Portland, near Sauvie Island.
Since Hurley had no family or close friends, she had planned to move into a retirement home. Misner and Ortiz helped her move and took her to doctor’s appointments.
“We became close,” Misner said. “She told us she loved us and that we were like family. She said we were the only ones who truly helped her over the last couple of years.”
Squatters Take Over Her Home
Hurley later had to leave the retirement home due to medical issues and return to her house. Since she was bedridden, she was unable to secure her home properly. Squatters moved in and started living on the second floor, where she couldn’t check.
Authorities are unsure exactly when Hurley was killed. Her body was discovered on February 17 inside a suitcase on the west bank of the Willamette River. The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that her death was ruled a homicide.
Justice for Hurley
Moody has been charged with murder and abuse of a corpse. His next court appearance is scheduled for March 3.
Hurley’s tragic death has left the community in shock. Those who knew her hope justice will be served and that no one else will have to experience such a heartbreaking fate.
