Rebecca Elizabeth West, born on September 17, 1979, in the United States, was a young girl whose life was tragically cut short. Her disappearance on October 21, 1991, at the age of 12, and the subsequent events that unfolded, have left an indelible mark on the community of Spokane, Washington, and beyond.
Rebecca, known affectionately as Becky, was a bright and vibrant child. With blonde hair and brown eyes, her presence was one of joy and youth. Standing at 4 feet 7 inches and weighing around 90 pounds, she was a small figure with a significant impact on those who knew her. On the day of her disappearance, she was dressed in black – a black shirt, pants, and shoes, a stark contrast to her light and lively personality.
The circumstances of October 21, 1991, remain a harrowing memory in the history of Spokane. Rebecca was last seen at a service station in Spokane, Washington. Accompanied by her 11-year-old friend and elementary school classmate, Iryll N. "Nicki" Wood, they were two young girls at the threshold of their teenage years, full of life and potential.
The disappearance of Rebecca and Nicki triggered a massive search operation. In a tragic turn, Nicki's body was discovered under a pile of burning pine needles, only two hours after they were reported missing. She had been strangled. The discovery was made in the Seven Mile area near Riverside State Park, north of Spokane. There was, however, no trace of Rebecca at the scene.
The prime suspect in this heinous act was Michael W. Tarbert, who resided in a cabin near the location of Wood's body. Known to Wood's mother, Tarbert was an admitted alcoholic and drug addict with a history of legal troubles. He claimed to have given the girls a ride home from a store on the day of their abduction but insisted on his non-involvement in their disappearance.
Investigations led bloodhounds to track Tarbert's scent from his cabin to where Wood's body was found, and also the scents of the two girls at his cabin. Despite these findings, there was insufficient evidence to charge him in connection with the girls' disappearance initially.
Tarbert's past was marred with other criminal activities. He was convicted of first-degree rape and theft in another case in 1992 and sentenced to eleven years in prison. It wasn't until 1996 that he was charged with the murders of Rebecca and Nicki, thanks to new witness testimonies and advances in DNA technology.
In May 1998, Tarbert entered a no contest plea to two counts of first-degree manslaughter, maintaining his innocence but opting for a plea deal to avoid a potential first-degree murder conviction and life sentence. He was sentenced to 20 years in prison for the girls' homicides.
Despite these legal proceedings, the whereabouts of Rebecca remained a mystery. Her remains have never been located, leaving a void in the hearts of those who knew her and the community at large.
Rebecca's disappearance and the subsequent investigation had a profound impact on Spokane. It led to the establishment of the community-oriented policing initiative and the setting up of neighborhood police substations across the city. This tragedy inspired a movement towards greater communal vigilance and cooperation in crime prevention and response, a legacy that stands as a testament to the loss of Rebecca and Nicki.
The untimely and tragic end of Rebecca's life reminds us of the fragility of existence and the importance of community in facing and overcoming adversity. Her story, though marred by unspeakable tragedy, has become a catalyst for change and awareness. It is a poignant reminder of the need for vigilance, empathy, and collective action in the face of wrongdoing.
As we remember Rebecca Elizabeth West, we do not simply recall the sorrow of her passing but also honor the spirit of a young girl whose life, though brief, has left an enduring impact. She symbolizes innocence lost and the imperative to protect and cherish our youth. Her story, while heartrending, has been a source of strength and motivation for many to strive for a safer, more caring world.
In closing, we pay homage to the memory of Rebecca Elizabeth West – a symbol of innocence, a reminder of the vulnerabilities of youth, and an impetus for positive change in our communities. Her life, though tragically brief, will be forever etched in the annals of Spokane and in the hearts of those who remember the events of that fateful October day in 1991.
Written by: Alan Owen
------------------------------------------------
Twelve-year-old, Rebecca, was a pretty girl who loved life. She especially enjoyed being with her friends, and was last seen with her friend, Iyrll "Nicki" Wood, at a service station in Spokane, Washington, on October 21, 1991. When the girls did not return home that evening, they were reported missing and a massive search was launched. Nicki's remains were later found, but Rebecca was never found. Michael W. Tarbert, who resided in a cabin near the location where Nicki was found in 1991, was convicted of both of the girls' murders in March 1996, and sentenced to twenty years in prison. Rebecca is presumed deceased, and this is her only place of remembrance.
Rebecca, known affectionately as Becky, was a bright and vibrant child. With blonde hair and brown eyes, her presence was one of joy and youth. Standing at 4 feet 7 inches and weighing around 90 pounds, she was a small figure with a significant impact on those who knew her. On the day of her disappearance, she was dressed in black – a black shirt, pants, and shoes, a stark contrast to her light and lively personality.
The circumstances of October 21, 1991, remain a harrowing memory in the history of Spokane. Rebecca was last seen at a service station in Spokane, Washington. Accompanied by her 11-year-old friend and elementary school classmate, Iryll N. "Nicki" Wood, they were two young girls at the threshold of their teenage years, full of life and potential.
The disappearance of Rebecca and Nicki triggered a massive search operation. In a tragic turn, Nicki's body was discovered under a pile of burning pine needles, only two hours after they were reported missing. She had been strangled. The discovery was made in the Seven Mile area near Riverside State Park, north of Spokane. There was, however, no trace of Rebecca at the scene.
The prime suspect in this heinous act was Michael W. Tarbert, who resided in a cabin near the location of Wood's body. Known to Wood's mother, Tarbert was an admitted alcoholic and drug addict with a history of legal troubles. He claimed to have given the girls a ride home from a store on the day of their abduction but insisted on his non-involvement in their disappearance.
Investigations led bloodhounds to track Tarbert's scent from his cabin to where Wood's body was found, and also the scents of the two girls at his cabin. Despite these findings, there was insufficient evidence to charge him in connection with the girls' disappearance initially.
Tarbert's past was marred with other criminal activities. He was convicted of first-degree rape and theft in another case in 1992 and sentenced to eleven years in prison. It wasn't until 1996 that he was charged with the murders of Rebecca and Nicki, thanks to new witness testimonies and advances in DNA technology.
In May 1998, Tarbert entered a no contest plea to two counts of first-degree manslaughter, maintaining his innocence but opting for a plea deal to avoid a potential first-degree murder conviction and life sentence. He was sentenced to 20 years in prison for the girls' homicides.
Despite these legal proceedings, the whereabouts of Rebecca remained a mystery. Her remains have never been located, leaving a void in the hearts of those who knew her and the community at large.
Rebecca's disappearance and the subsequent investigation had a profound impact on Spokane. It led to the establishment of the community-oriented policing initiative and the setting up of neighborhood police substations across the city. This tragedy inspired a movement towards greater communal vigilance and cooperation in crime prevention and response, a legacy that stands as a testament to the loss of Rebecca and Nicki.
The untimely and tragic end of Rebecca's life reminds us of the fragility of existence and the importance of community in facing and overcoming adversity. Her story, though marred by unspeakable tragedy, has become a catalyst for change and awareness. It is a poignant reminder of the need for vigilance, empathy, and collective action in the face of wrongdoing.
As we remember Rebecca Elizabeth West, we do not simply recall the sorrow of her passing but also honor the spirit of a young girl whose life, though brief, has left an enduring impact. She symbolizes innocence lost and the imperative to protect and cherish our youth. Her story, while heartrending, has been a source of strength and motivation for many to strive for a safer, more caring world.
In closing, we pay homage to the memory of Rebecca Elizabeth West – a symbol of innocence, a reminder of the vulnerabilities of youth, and an impetus for positive change in our communities. Her life, though tragically brief, will be forever etched in the annals of Spokane and in the hearts of those who remember the events of that fateful October day in 1991.
Written by: Alan Owen
------------------------------------------------
Twelve-year-old, Rebecca, was a pretty girl who loved life. She especially enjoyed being with her friends, and was last seen with her friend, Iyrll "Nicki" Wood, at a service station in Spokane, Washington, on October 21, 1991. When the girls did not return home that evening, they were reported missing and a massive search was launched. Nicki's remains were later found, but Rebecca was never found. Michael W. Tarbert, who resided in a cabin near the location where Nicki was found in 1991, was convicted of both of the girls' murders in March 1996, and sentenced to twenty years in prison. Rebecca is presumed deceased, and this is her only place of remembrance.
Rebecca Elizabeth West, born on September 17, 1979, in the United States, was a young girl whose life was tragically cut short. Her disappearance on October 21, 1991, at the age of 12, and the subsequent events that unfolded, have left an indelible mark on the community of Spokane, Washington, and beyond.
Rebecca, known affectionately as Becky, was a bright and vibrant child. With blonde hair and brown eyes, her presence was one of joy and youth. Standing at 4 feet 7 inches and weighing around 90 pounds, she was a small figure with a significant impact on those who knew her. On the day of her disappearance, she was dressed in black – a black shirt, pants, and shoes, a stark contrast to her light and lively personality.
The circumstances of October 21, 1991, remain a harrowing memory in the history of Spokane. Rebecca was last seen at a service station in Spokane, Washington. Accompanied by her 11-year-old friend and elementary school classmate, Iryll N. "Nicki" Wood, they were two young girls at the threshold of their teenage years, full of life and potential.
The disappearance of Rebecca and Nicki triggered a massive search operation. In a tragic turn, Nicki's body was discovered under a pile of burning pine needles, only two hours after they were reported missing. She had been strangled. The discovery was made in the Seven Mile area near Riverside State Park, north of Spokane. There was, however, no trace of Rebecca at the scene.
The prime suspect in this heinous act was Michael W. Tarbert, who resided in a cabin near the location of Wood's body. Known to Wood's mother, Tarbert was an admitted alcoholic and drug addict with a history of legal troubles. He claimed to have given the girls a ride home from a store on the day of their abduction but insisted on his non-involvement in their disappearance.
Investigations led bloodhounds to track Tarbert's scent from his cabin to where Wood's body was found, and also the scents of the two girls at his cabin. Despite these findings, there was insufficient evidence to charge him in connection with the girls' disappearance initially.
Tarbert's past was marred with other criminal activities. He was convicted of first-degree rape and theft in another case in 1992 and sentenced to eleven years in prison. It wasn't until 1996 that he was charged with the murders of Rebecca and Nicki, thanks to new witness testimonies and advances in DNA technology.
In May 1998, Tarbert entered a no contest plea to two counts of first-degree manslaughter, maintaining his innocence but opting for a plea deal to avoid a potential first-degree murder conviction and life sentence. He was sentenced to 20 years in prison for the girls' homicides.
Despite these legal proceedings, the whereabouts of Rebecca remained a mystery. Her remains have never been located, leaving a void in the hearts of those who knew her and the community at large.
Rebecca's disappearance and the subsequent investigation had a profound impact on Spokane. It led to the establishment of the community-oriented policing initiative and the setting up of neighborhood police substations across the city. This tragedy inspired a movement towards greater communal vigilance and cooperation in crime prevention and response, a legacy that stands as a testament to the loss of Rebecca and Nicki.
The untimely and tragic end of Rebecca's life reminds us of the fragility of existence and the importance of community in facing and overcoming adversity. Her story, though marred by unspeakable tragedy, has become a catalyst for change and awareness. It is a poignant reminder of the need for vigilance, empathy, and collective action in the face of wrongdoing.
As we remember Rebecca Elizabeth West, we do not simply recall the sorrow of her passing but also honor the spirit of a young girl whose life, though brief, has left an enduring impact. She symbolizes innocence lost and the imperative to protect and cherish our youth. Her story, while heartrending, has been a source of strength and motivation for many to strive for a safer, more caring world.
In closing, we pay homage to the memory of Rebecca Elizabeth West – a symbol of innocence, a reminder of the vulnerabilities of youth, and an impetus for positive change in our communities. Her life, though tragically brief, will be forever etched in the annals of Spokane and in the hearts of those who remember the events of that fateful October day in 1991.
Written by: Alan Owen
------------------------------------------------
Twelve-year-old, Rebecca, was a pretty girl who loved life. She especially enjoyed being with her friends, and was last seen with her friend, Iyrll "Nicki" Wood, at a service station in Spokane, Washington, on October 21, 1991. When the girls did not return home that evening, they were reported missing and a massive search was launched. Nicki's remains were later found, but Rebecca was never found. Michael W. Tarbert, who resided in a cabin near the location where Nicki was found in 1991, was convicted of both of the girls' murders in March 1996, and sentenced to twenty years in prison. Rebecca is presumed deceased, and this is her only place of remembrance.
Rebecca, known affectionately as Becky, was a bright and vibrant child. With blonde hair and brown eyes, her presence was one of joy and youth. Standing at 4 feet 7 inches and weighing around 90 pounds, she was a small figure with a significant impact on those who knew her. On the day of her disappearance, she was dressed in black – a black shirt, pants, and shoes, a stark contrast to her light and lively personality.
The circumstances of October 21, 1991, remain a harrowing memory in the history of Spokane. Rebecca was last seen at a service station in Spokane, Washington. Accompanied by her 11-year-old friend and elementary school classmate, Iryll N. "Nicki" Wood, they were two young girls at the threshold of their teenage years, full of life and potential.
The disappearance of Rebecca and Nicki triggered a massive search operation. In a tragic turn, Nicki's body was discovered under a pile of burning pine needles, only two hours after they were reported missing. She had been strangled. The discovery was made in the Seven Mile area near Riverside State Park, north of Spokane. There was, however, no trace of Rebecca at the scene.
The prime suspect in this heinous act was Michael W. Tarbert, who resided in a cabin near the location of Wood's body. Known to Wood's mother, Tarbert was an admitted alcoholic and drug addict with a history of legal troubles. He claimed to have given the girls a ride home from a store on the day of their abduction but insisted on his non-involvement in their disappearance.
Investigations led bloodhounds to track Tarbert's scent from his cabin to where Wood's body was found, and also the scents of the two girls at his cabin. Despite these findings, there was insufficient evidence to charge him in connection with the girls' disappearance initially.
Tarbert's past was marred with other criminal activities. He was convicted of first-degree rape and theft in another case in 1992 and sentenced to eleven years in prison. It wasn't until 1996 that he was charged with the murders of Rebecca and Nicki, thanks to new witness testimonies and advances in DNA technology.
In May 1998, Tarbert entered a no contest plea to two counts of first-degree manslaughter, maintaining his innocence but opting for a plea deal to avoid a potential first-degree murder conviction and life sentence. He was sentenced to 20 years in prison for the girls' homicides.
Despite these legal proceedings, the whereabouts of Rebecca remained a mystery. Her remains have never been located, leaving a void in the hearts of those who knew her and the community at large.
Rebecca's disappearance and the subsequent investigation had a profound impact on Spokane. It led to the establishment of the community-oriented policing initiative and the setting up of neighborhood police substations across the city. This tragedy inspired a movement towards greater communal vigilance and cooperation in crime prevention and response, a legacy that stands as a testament to the loss of Rebecca and Nicki.
The untimely and tragic end of Rebecca's life reminds us of the fragility of existence and the importance of community in facing and overcoming adversity. Her story, though marred by unspeakable tragedy, has become a catalyst for change and awareness. It is a poignant reminder of the need for vigilance, empathy, and collective action in the face of wrongdoing.
As we remember Rebecca Elizabeth West, we do not simply recall the sorrow of her passing but also honor the spirit of a young girl whose life, though brief, has left an enduring impact. She symbolizes innocence lost and the imperative to protect and cherish our youth. Her story, while heartrending, has been a source of strength and motivation for many to strive for a safer, more caring world.
In closing, we pay homage to the memory of Rebecca Elizabeth West – a symbol of innocence, a reminder of the vulnerabilities of youth, and an impetus for positive change in our communities. Her life, though tragically brief, will be forever etched in the annals of Spokane and in the hearts of those who remember the events of that fateful October day in 1991.
Written by: Alan Owen
------------------------------------------------
Twelve-year-old, Rebecca, was a pretty girl who loved life. She especially enjoyed being with her friends, and was last seen with her friend, Iyrll "Nicki" Wood, at a service station in Spokane, Washington, on October 21, 1991. When the girls did not return home that evening, they were reported missing and a massive search was launched. Nicki's remains were later found, but Rebecca was never found. Michael W. Tarbert, who resided in a cabin near the location where Nicki was found in 1991, was convicted of both of the girls' murders in March 1996, and sentenced to twenty years in prison. Rebecca is presumed deceased, and this is her only place of remembrance.
