News

No foul play suspected after dead body found at Maritime Heritage Park

No foul play suspected after dead body found at Maritime Heritage Park

A Bellingham Police patrol vehicle Photo: Saga Communications/Dave Walker


Editor’s Note: Story updated at 2:39 p.m. on 9/11/26 to include new information from the Medical Examiner’s Office.

BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – No foul play is suspected following the discovery of a dead body at a park in downtown Bellingham.

Bellingham Police Lt. Claudia Murphy says witnesses called 911 after finding a person slumped over on a park bench at Maritime Heritage Park around 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 9.

The Bellingham Fire Department was first to the scene and attempted life-saving measures, but pronounced the person dead at the scene.

Murphy says investigators did not find any evidence to suggest foul play was involved.

The body was turned over to the Whatcom County Medical Examiner’s Office to determine the person’s cause of death.

The Medical Examiner has identified the deceased as 47-year-old Joshua Harjo of Bellingham.

Recent Headlines

16 hours ago in Crime, Local, Trending, Tribal News

Lummi Nation man pleads guilty to killing bald eagles

39-year-old Joel Ridley is scheduled to be sentenced in federal court in January 2027.

17 hours ago in Business, Health and Wellness, Local, Trending

Unity Care NW names next CEO

Bonnie Ross will succeed Jodi Joyce, who retired in June after six years in the position.

18 hours ago in Business, Entertainment, Lifestyle, Local, Outdoors, Trending

Mount Baker Ski Area opens new retail location

Baker merch, winter gear and mountain information are among the store's offerings.

18 hours ago in Community Events, Government, Local, Trending

Bellingham mayor to address local uptick in ICE arrests in community meeting

It comes as Whatcom County saw a spike in immigration arrests over the summer.

18 hours ago in Entertainment, Lifestyle, Local, Outdoors, Sports, Traffic, Weather

Mount Baker Hwy, Ski Area preparing for winter season

Closures for the roadway are scheduled for Monday and Tuesday.