Missing Dayton man found

The remains of Guadalupe "Andy" Benavides, 47, of Dayton, who has been missing since April 13, 2023, were located in a remote part of north Walla Walla County, along with the vehicle he was last seen driving, reported Undersheriff Joe Klundt of the Walla Walla County Sheriff's Office Tuesday.

At approximately 9 a.m., Klundt indicated, the Sheriff's Office was notified that a red Ford truck identical to the one Mr. Benavides was last seen driving, was parked in a wheat field in north Walla Walla County. "This area is fairly remote," Klundt said, "and down inside a deep ravine."

Multiple members of the Sheriff's Office responded to this area and confirmed this to be the correct vehicle. Sadly, human remains were also discovered with the vehicle and confirmed to be Mr. Benavides, Klundt said.

"At this time, there does not appear to be any foul play involved and next of kin have been notified," Klundt said.

Extensive searching has been underway since April 13in Columbia and Walla Walla counties by many friends, family, volunteers and law enforcement personnel.

The Sheriff's Office extended its condolences to Benavides's family and thanked the public and partner agencies who assisted in the search of the last several weeks.

Benavides did not appear at his job on April 14, and a missing person bulletin was issued on April 20 by the WWSO.

He is the son of Lupe Benavides and Marva Thomas.