Knox County Coroner issues findings on body pulled from septic tank

By SAMANTHA SCOLES
News Managing Editor

MOUNT VERNON — The body found six days ago in a septic tank on Newcastle Road has been positively identified as Raymond Staats.

According to Knox County Coroner Jennifer Ogle, Staats was shot several times in the chest and torso and suffered an injury to his spinal cord.

Staats was asphyxiated with a plastic bag that was secured over his head. There was severe decomposition to his body, Ogle said.

Comparison of dental records aided in the identification of Staats.

Forensic pathologist Dr. Jeff Lee performed the autopsy.

Staats was reported missing Jan. 9, 2009, from Canton, by a lifelong friend who last saw him leaving Canton for Mount Vernon in a blue Durango.

A call has been placed to Knox County Sheriff David Barber seeking information as to what happens next in this case.

The Mount Vernon News will continue to publish information as to who killed Staats, and why, as it becomes available.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, July 19th, 2011 at 12:29 pmand is filed under breaking, story. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

  • dowensdlegg

    Yes , He had a history but HE DIDN’T DESERVE TO BE SHOT MANY TIMES,SPINAL INJURIES ,AND ALSO A BAG PLACED OVER HIS HEAD TO SUFFER AND DIE .SOMEONE NEEDS TO PAY FOR THIS !

    • Guest

      Oh….. I didnt realize that.

      Your right. No one should have to go through that kind of violence. As if he’s not even human! I hope they catch the person.