Bly Mountain Area Homicide Investigation – Investigation Update

On 05/15/24, the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a deceased male identified as Ted Foltz Tipton (age 53). The crime scene was determined to be on Kodiak Lane (Bly Mountain) in Oregon. This location is a rural area approximately 11 miles north of Bonanza, Oregon. The Klamath County Major Crime Team, comprised of investigators from a number of state and local agencies, responded to the area. The investigation is being treated as a homicide.

To update – On Saturday, May 25, friends and community members gathered for a memorial service for Ted Foltz Tipton. Many community members shared their loss and questions directly with investigators.

While the investigation into the victim’s death is ongoing, there is very little information that can be made public. The Klamath County Sheriff’s Office has received numerous tips and continues to follow up on leads that have not yet been investigated.

Interviews, community tips, evidence collections, and area surveys were conducted. Follow-up interviews have uncovered some insightful information. Many individuals have been cleared of involvement, while some remain persons of interest. Forensic evidence has been collected that may contain important information. This evidence has been provided to or collected by the OSP Crime Lab, and investigators are awaiting the results of their analysis.

Many accusations have been posted on social media in the local community, which does not help the investigation. However, there is strong evidence that the person responsible for the death was known to the victim and that there are residents in the area who have relevant information that has not yet been shared with investigators.

The Klamath County Sheriff’s Office and the Klamath County Major Crimes Unit are asking anyone with information related to this investigation to call (541) 850-5380 and provide that information to investigators.