On July 6, 1999, Mark J. Dribin, a 42 year-old Portland resident, was reported missing. After a search of his residence revealed suspicious circumstances, Dribin, as well as his vehicle, remained missing. Dribin's residence and recovered vehicle were forensically processed and analyzed, by the Bureau's Forensic Evidence Division and the Oregon State Police Crime Lab.
The missing person case was reclassified to a homicide and the subsequent investigation garnished DNA evidence, but it was and remained unidentified in the national DNA database (CODIS). After a lengthy investigation, the case went cold. For more details about this case, visit this link: https://www.portlandoregon.gov/police/article/457951
In March 2019, the case was reopened by the Portland Police Bureau's Cold Case Unit and the DNA evidence was submitted for Forensic Genetic Genealogy analysis. Further investigative leads were developed and the Oregon State Police Forensic Services Division continued DNA analysis.
On May 4, 2020, 52 year-old Christopher Lovrien was arrested by the US Marshall's Office and charged with the Murder of Mark Dribin. Due to the ongoing investigative process, no further details will be provided at this time.
Mark Dribin's family has been notified of the arrest and respectfully ask for privacy at this time. They are not interested in speaking with media.
Cold Case Detectives are asking anyone who might have information regarding the homicide of Mark Dribin to contact Detective Brendan McGuire at 503-823-0869 or email [email protected]
"The apprehension of a murder suspect after twenty years highlights the on-going commitment and persistence of PPB's Cold Case Homicide Unit investigators," said Chief Jami Resch. "We are grateful for the assistance from the Oregon State Crime Lab and US Marshall's Service members in helping us to identify and capture this violent offender. If anyone has information about other unsolved homicides, please reach out with information. Closing these cases by identifying and arresting those responsible can help the family and friends of those who have died by providing some answers and closure."
Republished courtesy of Portland Police Bureau. Photo: Mark Dribin, the victim.