Washington, WA – Authorities in Washington state have arrested James Daniel Lewis, four years after the alleged murder of 36-year-old Amanda Elaine Green, whose body was later found buried with used syringes on top in a shallow grave. Investigators say Lewis committed the crime in May 2021 and attempted to cover it up as a drug-related death.
Murder and Discovery of Remains
Lewis is facing charges of second-degree murder, unlawful possession of a firearm, and unlawful disposal of human remains. Green had been reported missing to Tacoma police in August 2021. In 2022, authorities informed the Thurston County Sheriff’s Office that she had likely been murdered near Yelm, Washington.
Detectives initially developed a person of interest but lacked sufficient evidence, particularly the victim’s body, to make an arrest. Investigative efforts were renewed in March 2025, leading to Lewis’s arrest on an unrelated warrant last weekend. During the interview, he allegedly admitted to killing Green at his home in Yelm and directed police to a shallow grave in Lewis County near Mt. Rainier, where human remains believed to be Green’s were recovered.
Confession and Witness Accounts
Authorities spoke with multiple witnesses, including individuals who were on the property at the time of the murder or heard Lewis confessing. Witnesses claimed Lewis killed Green because he feared she was trying to overtake property previously belonging to his grandmother.
After receiving Miranda warnings, Lewis initially attempted to blame another man for the shooting and claimed he was forced to help dispose of the body. However, after further questioning, he admitted to being the shooter and stated the other man assisted in moving the remains.
Lewis gave varied reasons for the killing, including accusations that Green had stolen firearms, pointed a gun at him, or intended to take over property. Investigators described his explanations as inconsistent, suggesting he was seeking “any reason” to shoot Green.
Bizarre Motive: A Shower Dispute
In the arrest affidavit, Detective Gross noted that Lewis described a peculiar trigger for the murder. Lewis allegedly told investigators:
“When she first obtained a firearm, she forced me to take a shower. If you know me, I don’t like taking showers. It was humiliating. I wasn’t sure why she cared if I smelled bad.”
Lewis claimed he was “too jumpy” and was looking for any justification to harm Green, citing personal grievances over control and perceived threats.
Investigation into Accomplice
Police attempted to question the man who allegedly helped Lewis bury Green and scatter used syringes on her body to simulate a drug overdose. However, authorities noted limited progress due to the individual’s mental health issues. He is not facing charges as of now.
Investigators believe Green was killed in late May 2021, shortly after she rented a U-Haul that was never returned. Lewis remains in the Thurston County Jail without bond, and his next court date is scheduled for Tuesday.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
The case highlights the challenges authorities face when evidence is scarce or delayed. Lewis’s arrest came nearly four years after the crime, and prosecutors have charged him with multiple serious offenses. Investigators continue to examine the scene and potential accomplices, ensuring all relevant evidence is accounted for before trial.
Conclusion
This incident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers posed by escalating domestic disputes and personal grievances. The investigation underscores the importance of thorough police work, witness cooperation, and forensic evidence in solving cold cases. Authorities urge anyone with information regarding Lewis or his accomplice to come forward.
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