MISSING couple is now presumed dead as a man has been arrested in connection with their murder.

On Monday, November 13, 2023, officers carried out a welfare check at Karen Koep and Davido’s home in Washington after Karen failed to show up for work.

The couple’s car was later found in Olympia near 67th Avenue Southeast and Rainier Road Southeast, which is near Koep’s office and about five miles from the couple’s home and near a local hiking trail.

The Thurston County Sheriff’s office released a picture of the couple’s 2015 silver Toyota Yaris and asked the public for their help in providing any potential leads or clues to the suspicious disappearance.

Now, an unnamed man in his 40s from Olympia, Washington has been arrested as the police are thinking the couple to be dead.

At the time of the disappearance, the police labeled it as “suspicious,” and are now revealing that they had found evidence of an attack.

“Throughout the investigation, we have been in contact with the family of the missing couple, and sadly, we do not believe the couple survived the attack at their residence,” the sheriff’s department shared in a press release.

Karen’s sister spoke to NBC News and divulged that she did not think the couple went anywhere willingly.

“I know that they didn’t walk away from their house on their own, let’s put it that way,” Pauline Dutton said.

“They didn’t just walk out of there. They’re not in Bora Bora having a vacation … They are missing, and I don’t think they went willingly.”

The sheriff’s office statement hinted at law enforcement partnering with other agencies to find a suspect in their disappearance.

“Working with our local, state, and federal partners, we have gathered evidence to identify a suspect in their disappearance,” read the statement.

The suspect, now in custody, has been charged with two counts of First Degree Murder and Kidnapping.

He was processed at Thurston County Jail and the sheriff’s department said they will divulge more information as they are able.

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Due to the nature of the case as ongoing, more information can only be given out as developments progress.

Earlier in the investigation, a different individual had been arrested in connection to the case but was later released, according to what Lieutenant Mike Brooks told The U.S. Sun.

“Yes, somewhat related, but since it’s all ongoing part of the investigation — we will not release it,” Brooks noted when asked about the arrested person.

Locals in the area have created a Facebook group to support the couple’s family as a community.

Originally the group had been planning a search party for Sunday, but they have since pivoted with recent news.

“In light of recent developments, the event has been changed to being solely a Prayer Vigil,” wrote the event organizer.

The prayer vigil will be held on November 19 at 3pm.

Karen’s career as a chiropractor in the area has multiple people worried and mourning her loss.

Phil Jasperson commented on one of the sheriff’s office’s Facebook statements: “Karen has been our DC since 1999. I can’t believe I’m reading this! I don’t know what to say or do as she has [sic] an important part of my entire family’s life.”

“I am so heartbroken to hear this news. Just saw Karen last Friday. As with so many, she is my chiropractor too. She is such a wonderful person. God I pray they are safely found soon,” commented Cindy Harris.

Paul K Girard said: “She Is A Miracle Worker And A Wonderful Person.”

“I grew up with their sons, and have many fond memories at their home. Praying they’re found safe,” commented Nakai Baird.

The couple’s son, Justice Dutton, said the family appreciates the positivity and prayers online and on social media.

“We’re so touched by so many people showing love and support for my mother and father,” said Dutton, as reported by NBC affiliate King 5.

Police are still asking that anyone with information on the couple’s disappearance and potential murder come forward.

Those with information can email the sheriff’s department at detectives@co.thurston.wa.us or via phone call dispatch at 360-704-2740.