Scappoose, Oregon - New court documents have revealed shocking details surrounding the tragic stabbing death of Rhiannon Amelia Meyer on December 19th. The victim's mother, Debbie, claimed that Derek Lee Welter, a 40-year-old homeless man, was responsible for the attack.

According to the probable cause document, authorities responded to Meyer's residence in Scappoose to find her collapsed on the porch, with her mother frantically applying pressure to her neck wound. Debbie recounted to officers that Welter stabbed her daughter before fleeing the scene.

The court documents state that Welter had been living on the streets, but Meyer had graciously allowed him to use her home for showering and laundry. On the day of the incident, Meyer was at home with her mother when Welter's behavior became increasingly bizarre. He reportedly exhibited signs of paranoia and incessant pacing, likely due to his history of methamphetamine use, according to Debbie's statement.

Welter's mother, Josie, was also present at the residence that day but left out of fear of her son's erratic behavior. Debbie recounted that Welter suddenly entered the kitchen, launching a vicious attack on Meyer with a switchblade-style knife. Despite her attempts to escape, Meyer was repeatedly stabbed, suffering deep wounds to her neck and abdomen.

Debbie bravely fought back against Welter, allowing Meyer to reach the front door before collapsing from her injuries. Welter promptly fled the scene in his truck, leaving authorities with a sense of urgency to apprehend him.

Later in the evening, at approximately 6:30 p.m., law enforcement located Welter's truck near Gunners Lake. However, as officers approached, he sped away, evading capture once again. After an intense search effort, in cooperation with the SWAT team, Oregon State Police, and the Washington County Sheriff's Office, Welter was finally arrested at 11:34 p.m.

The arrest of Derek Lee Welter brings some closure to the Meyer family, as they mourn the loss of Rhiannon Amelia Meyer. Welter now faces charges related to the deadly stabbing and will have his day in court to answer for his alleged actions.

This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the risks present in extending kindness to those in need, emphasizing the importance of safety measures and vigilance in our communities. The authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the attack as the Scappoose community grapples with this senseless act of violence.

As the Scappoose community begins the healing process, they come together to support the grieving Meyer family, offering condolences and assistance during this difficult time.