Melissa Rosann Trench, also known as Rose, was a 38-year-old woman from Bend, Oregon who went missing on December 26, 2023. Her body was found on January 15, 2023 in Shevlin Park, a forested area west of Bend. Her death was ruled a suicide by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office. Here is what we know so far about her case and the circumstances surrounding her death.
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The Disappearance of Melissa Trench
Melissa Trench was last seen by her family on December 26, 2023. The next day, she called an ex-boyfriend from years ago and told him she was injured in a forest and needed help, according to The Bulletin. He in turn notified her family, who began their search for her.
Her family found her car at the entrance of Shevlin Park on the evening of December 27, 2023. They contacted the Bend Police Department and reported her missing. The police launched an investigation and searched the park with the help of the Deschutes County Search and Rescue Team and the Pacific Crest Trackers Association.
The search was hampered by snow, cold weather, and rugged terrain. The police also checked her cellphone records and interviewed the ex-boyfriend, who was out of state when she made the call. They found no evidence of foul play or criminal wrongdoing.
The Discovery of Melissa Trench’s Remains
After nearly three weeks of searching by police, search teams, family, friends, and community members, Melissa Trench’s remains were found on January 15, 2023 by people searching in the Shevlin Park area. They called 911 and reported their discovery to the authorities.
The remains were located on the south end of Shevlin Park, near Tumalo Creek and Forest Service Road 4606. The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office responded and confirmed the identity of the deceased as Melissa Trench. The Deschutes County Medical Examiner’s Office also assisted in the investigation.
The cause of death was determined to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, according to the final report released by the Deschutes County District Attorney’s Office on March 10, 2023. A handgun was found near her body. No note or other indication of her motive was found.
The Reaction of Melissa Trench’s Family and Friends
Melissa Trench’s family and friends were devastated by the news of her death. They expressed their grief and gratitude on a Facebook page called “Bring Melissa Home” that they had created to spread awareness about her case and coordinate search efforts.
On January 15, 2023, they posted this statement:
“Today, January 15th, Melissa Rosann ‘Rose’ Trench arrived home. Her spirit is free and she is at peace.
We would like to share our most profound gratitude to each and every person who was able to participate in the searches in some shape or form, who has sent messages of hope and inspiration and kept her and our family in their thoughts.
Thank you to the Deschutes County Search and Rescue Team for their relentless efforts, to the Pacific Crest Trackers Association for their time & dedication as well as the Bend Police Department for their assistance. Special thanks as well to Kylie & Emily.
May Melissa ‘Rose’ continue to live in our hearts and her spirit continue to accompany the acts of those she’s touched.”
Melissa Trench was described by her loved ones as a beautiful, kind, creative, adventurous, and compassionate person who loved nature, animals, music, art, and vintage clothing. She had a degree in graphic design from Oregon State University and worked as a freelance designer. She also had a passion for photography and had a website where she showcased her work.
She is survived by her parents, two sisters, a brother-in-law, a niece, a nephew, and many friends.
The Prevention of Suicide
Suicide is a tragic and preventable public health issue that affects millions of people around the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 700,000 people die by suicide every year. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among 15-29 year olds globally.
There are many factors that can contribute to suicidal thoughts and behaviors, such as mental disorders, substance abuse, stress, trauma, loss, isolation, stigma, discrimination, violence, abuse, chronic pain, terminal illness, financial problems, or relationship issues. However, suicide is not inevitable and can be prevented with timely intervention and support.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or feelings, please reach out for help. You are not alone and there is hope. There are many resources available to help you cope and find solutions to your problems. Here are some of them:
- The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (USA): 1-800-273-8255. This is a free, confidential, and 24/7 service that connects you with trained counselors who can offer support and referrals to local resources. You can also chat online with them at [suicidepreventionlifeline.org].
- The Crisis Text Line (USA): Text HOME to 741741. This is a free, confidential, and 24/7 service that connects you with trained crisis counselors who can help you through text messages. You can also visit [crisistextline.org] for more information.
- The International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP): This is a global organization that works to prevent suicide and support those affected by it. You can visit [iasp.info] to find a list of crisis centers and helplines in different countries and regions.
- The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP): This is a national organization that raises awareness, funds research, advocates for policy, and supports survivors of suicide loss. You can visit [afsp.org] to find resources, programs, events, and ways to get involved.
- The World Health Organization (WHO): This is the leading international authority on health issues and a specialized agency of the United Nations. You can visit [who.int] to find information, publications, campaigns, and initiatives on suicide prevention and mental health.
Remember, suicide is not the answer. There is always another way. You matter and you are not alone. Help is available and recovery is possible. Please seek help if you need it and support others who may be in distress. Together, we can save lives and create a world without suicide.
