Clarence Pedersen

Two notes were found in the investigation of the suspicious death of Washington resident Ed Jones.

According to a criminal complaint from the Washington Police Department a lock box found in Clarence Dean Pedersen’s bedroom contained notes that read “Kill Ed” and “Kill yourself, suicide.” Pedersen was arrested Wednesday and charged with murder in the first degree for the stabbing death of Jones. The criminal complaint stated that Jones’ body was found seated fully clothed for work, wearing his employment name tag. His body was found by an Optimae Life Services caretaker after being informed Jones had not arrived to work Wednesday morning. Pedersen’s clothing was seized and examined by law enforcement and apparent blood was located on both the exterior and interior of both right and left short-shirt sleeves. The complaint stated Pedersen did have malice aforethought, willfully, deliberately, and with premeditation kill Jones. Pedersen is in custody at the Washington County Jail on $1,000,000 bail. A preliminary hearing for Pedersen is scheduled for 11 a.m. Friday, July 20th at the Washington County Courthouse. Celebration of life services for Jones will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday (7/18) at the Washington High School Auditorium. Calling hours will begin at 2 p.m. Tuesday (7/17) at the Jones & Eden Funeral Home in Washington where family will receive friends from 4-7 p.m.