Officials identify Portland woman as person found dead in car in Vancouver; death ruled a homicide

The Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office on Thursday identified a 31-year-old Portland woman as the person found dead in a car Nov. 1 in central Vancouver.

Vancouver police are now investigating Courtney Valencia Clinton’s death as a homicide, the agency said Thursday.

Clinton died from slash wounds to her neck. The medical examiner’s office ruled her death a homicide, meaning it resulted from another person’s deliberate action. The ruling does not make any judgments about criminal culpability.

Police responded about 4:25 a.m. to reports of a woman dead in a car in the 300 block of North Blandford Drive. Officers also found a small child in the car who did not appear to be injured. The police department said Thursday the child was safe and being cared for by family members.

Anyone with information about Clinton’s death is asked to contact Vancouver police’s tip line at 360-487-7399.

Clinton’s sister has created a GoFundMe to help cover the costs associated with transporting her body home and caring for her three young children. To donate, visit https://gofund.me/031ef6aa.

“Courtney was known for her immense love and generosity, always willing to lend a helping hand or offer a listening ear to those around her,” Clinton’s sister wrote. “Her spirit touched many lives, and it is important for us to ensure that she receives the farewell that reflects the beautiful person she was.”