Body Parts Murder Investigation Update

LOS ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
PRESS RELEASE
Monday, November 13, 2000

”Body Parts Murder Investigation Update"

Canoga Park – On Friday, November 10, 2000, Devonshire Area Operations Support Division detectives initiated a homicide investigation where human body parts were recovered from an apartment complex, located at the 8700 block of Desoto Avenue, in Chatsworth.

A possible suspect, later identified as 41 year-old Karen Lee Huster, was taken into custody in connection with the homicide investigation.

Further investigation revealed suspect Huster had an outstanding warrant from Washington County, Oregon, in connection with the murder investigation of suspect Huster’s ten year-old daughter.

On Monday, November 13, 2000, a post-mortem examination of the recovered remains was performed by the Los Angeles County Coroner’s personnel. The preliminary examination did not render a cause of death, nor have the remains been positively identified. The case is being deferred for further tissue analysis, and toxicology results.

The investigation into the disappearance of the male tenant residing at the apartment in the 8700 block of Desoto Avenue remains under investigation. Charges against Huster, related to this investigation, are pending.

Suspect Huster remains in custody at Twin Towers custody facility under murder charges stemming from the Oregon investigation.

This Press Release was prepared by Officer Eduardo Funes, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.

For Release 4:30 pm PST
November 13, 2000