Photo: N_Saroach / iStock / Getty Images
A tragic case in Washington has emerged, involving the death of 82-year-old Marcia Norman, who was killed using a nail gun. The suspect, 47-year-old handyman Jeffrey Zizz, is accused of murder, kidnapping, and unlawful disposal of human remains. According to the Thurston County Coroner, Gary Warnock, Norman suffered trauma from a pneumatic nailer, and her death was not immediate, taking hours to occur.
Norman's body was discovered on April 9, buried under a shed with concrete poured over it. The discovery was made after cadaver dogs and ground-penetrating radar were used on the property. Zizz was the last known person to see Norman alive, having had dinner with her on April 1. Her family reported her missing on April 4, leading to the investigation.
During a search of Zizz's home, detectives found a five-page letter detailing a planned burglary and sexual assault of a woman referred to as his customer. While there is no evidence of sexual assault, the letter is part of the ongoing investigation. Thurston County Sheriff Derek Sanders described the letter as "extremely disturbing" and noted similarities between its contents and the evidence found in Norman's case.
Zizz fled to Montana during the investigation but was arrested in Missoula on April 7 and extradited to Washington on April 13. He is currently being held without bail, with a formal arraignment scheduled for May 6. Zizz's initial statements about his whereabouts were contradicted by a license plate reader, leading to further suspicion.
The motive for the killing remains unclear, though Sheriff Sanders suggested that Zizz may be inherently violent. As the investigation continues, Zizz is expected to face formal charges soon.