GRANITE FALLS — Human remains found Wednesday off the Mountain Loop Highway are believed to be those of Andrew Spencer, who has been missing for more than a week.
Spencer, 31, of Granite Falls, last was seen Nov. 3. His death is being investigated as a homicide, said Shari Ireton, spokeswoman for the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office.
Detectives have identified the suspect as George Hatt Jr., 49.
Hatt is believed to be on the run in California. He reportedly shot Spencer, then burned and buried his body in the area of 133rd Street NE. Investigators believe the two had a dispute earlier this month over Spencer allegedly stealing something from Hatt.
Both men and several others reportedly had been squatting on the property, and the men knew each other, Ireton said.
Hatt also has a warrant in California for a parole violation, Ireton said. He is described as armed and dangerous.
“Anyone with information of his whereabouts should call 911 immediately,” Ireton said.
The human remains were taken to the county medical examiner’s office for identification. Spencer’s car was found Tuesday on the Mountain Loop with missing tires and broken windows, according to police.
Spencer has at least seven felony convictions in Washington, including burglary and robbery. He has served three stints in state prison since 2003, and was most recently released in July 2013, according to the Department of Corrections.
Spencer graduated from Marysville Pilchuck High School in 2002.
Rikki King: 425-339-3449; rking@heraldnet.com.
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