Suspect in killing near Lake Stevens had previous murder conviction

Mark Downey, a registered sex offender with a prior murder conviction, has been arrested in connection with the killing of Katie McQueen, a 37-year-old woman found dead near Lake Stevens. Authorities believe Downey fled to Mexico shortly after the murder, where he was arrested for a probation violation. DNA evidence obtained from McQueen's body linked Downey to the crime scene. During a lengthy police interrogation, he provided multiple conflicting accounts, initially denying any association with McQueen before admitting to stabbing her. Downey claimed he had solicited sex for $20 but changed his mind, leading to a confrontation in which he stated McQueen attacked him.

His inconsistent statements and the evidence against him have raised significant concerns regarding his accountability. Downey is currently being held in Snohomish County Jail with a bail amount set at $500,000. The investigation into McQueen's murder continues as authorities work to piece together the events surrounding her tragic death.