Passersby Discover Deceased Man Near I-84 Exit 82 in West The Dalles

By Tom Peterson

The Dalles, Ore., Feb. 12, 2026 — A 38-year-old houseless man was found deceased Wednesday afternoon near the Interstate 84 westbound on-ramp at Exit 82, north of Home Depot, according to The Dalles Police Department.

Caleb Massengale was discovered around 2:44 p.m. on Feb. 11 by individuals walking in the area, who checked on him and determined he was deceased before contacting authorities, said The Dalles Police Sgt. Douglas Kramer.

Massengale was often seen in the downtown core wearing camouflage face paint, and was somewhat well known with some downtown businesses.

Officers responded to Milepost 82 and are handling the death investigation in coordination with Dr. Christopher Van Tilburg, Wasco County Medical Examiner. Kramer said there were no immediate indications of foul play.

An official cause of death has not been determined. Toxicology results are pending through the medical examiner’s office.

Kramer said Massengale had a history of drug use and had multiple prior contacts with local law enforcement over the years.

“We’ve tried to give him assistance for multiple years,” Kramer said.

The investigation remains ongoing. Additional information may be forthcomeing if released pending the results of the medical examiner’s report.