In the early morning hours of July 20, 2024, the life of 34-year-old Savannah M. Feiler was tragically cut short in Olympia, Washington. A resident of the Puget Sound area for most of her life, Savannah was walking with a friend near Percival Creek on the city's west side when they were confronted by two individuals. An argument broke out, reportedly over money that one of the individuals believed he was owed by Feiler's partner.
The confrontation escalated, and a man produced a firearm, shooting Savannah. First responders were called to the scene around 4:50 a.m. and found Feiler with a gunshot wound to her upper left chest and mid-back. Despite receiving medical aid, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
The investigation into Savannah's death quickly identified a suspect: 43-year-old Steven L. Messex. Olympia police released his description, noting he was considered armed and dangerous. For nearly two weeks, Messex remained at large, prompting authorities to offer a monetary reward for information leading to his whereabouts. The search for Messex culminated in a dramatic manhunt on August 1st in Bucoda, involving a massive presence of law enforcement, including deputies, officers, and SWAT team operators. After fleeing on foot and an unsuccessful K9 track, Messex was eventually apprehended. He was subsequently arrested and charged with first-degree murder and unlawful possession of a firearm.
A second individual, 40-year-old Amanda A. Fontaine, was also implicated in the case. Authorities allege that Fontaine was present during the shooting and assisted Messex in his attempts to evade law enforcement. She has been charged with first-degree rendering criminal assistance and second-degree unlawful possession of a firearm. Both Messex and Fontaine were known to frequent the homeless camps in the area and were reportedly known as "enforcers."
Savannah Feiler is remembered as a loving mother to her daughter, Lydia, with whom she had spent many happy hours in the days leading up to her death. Her obituary describes her as a beautiful and sensitive friend who was always there for others. She had a deep appreciation for her mother's Korean food and enjoyed introducing her friends to the cuisine. An accomplished swimmer in her youth, Savannah also loved hiking, exploring new towns, and spending time at lakes and ocean beaches. Her life, marked by a warm smile and a sly sense of humor, was tragically ended, leaving behind grieving parents and a young daughter.
