Editor's note: Since this story was first published, Boise police have arrested a suspect in this case. Read the latest on the arrest and charges here.
The Ada County Coroner’s Office has identified the victim found dead on the Greenbelt Monday morning as 25-year-old Jordan Harbst.
Police said officers responded around 7:30 a.m. July 6 to a report of an unresponsive man on the north side of the Boise River near 11th Street. When officers arrived, they found Harbst deceased at the scene.
Detectives with the Boise Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit responded and began a death investigation. Evidence indicates the incident happened sometime between midnight and 7:30 a.m., and police are investigating the death as a homicide. His cause of death has not been released.
No suspect has been identified at this time.
Meanwhile, Boise Police are asking neighbors who may have seen unusual or suspicious in the area to come forward.
"Now we're asking for the public's help. Someone may have seen or experienced something that didn't seem important at the time but could be the piece of information that helps move this investigation forward. If you were on the Greenbelt, saw someone acting suspiciously, or experienced a violent encounter that was never reported, we want to hear from you. At the same time, we want those using the Greenbelt to take extra safety precautions and report anything that seems out of the ordinary," said Boise Police Sgt. Justin Kendall.
In a news release, BPD goes on to ask anyone who may have experienced or witnessed a violent encounter on or near the Greenbelt within the past few years that was never reported to law enforcement to come forward adding, "Investigators are reviewing any information that may help identify connections related to this case."
Anyone with information about the incident should contact Ada County Dispatch at 208-377-6790. Investigators are also looking for any available surveillance video from the area and surrounding locations.
Boise Police have since increased patrols along the greenbelt, but they also ask neighbors to be aware of their surroundings and to adhere to the following safety recommendations:
- Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings
- Walk, run or bike with others whenever possible
- Avoid wearing headphones or anything that limits your ability to hear or observe your surroundings.
- If you see something suspicious, say something and report it to police.
A verified GoFundMe has been created to support Jordan's family. The fundraiser, created by family friends, is raising donations to help Jordan's family cover unexpected funeral expenses and ease financial burdens as they navigate the loss.
As of Wed. July 8, at 6 p.m., $17,775 has been raised.
You can access the GoFundMe by clicking the link here.
