Body of former Big Island resident pulled from Washington State river

Authorities are investigating the death of a former Big Island resident pulled from the Columbia River in Washington State.

A fisherman discovered the body of 34-year-old Brandy Ebanez on Tuesday. According to Benton County Sheriff’s Office, they received the report from the angler at around 12:56 p.m. of possible human remains.

Ebanez was pulled from the river and was identified through dental records. Ebanez grew up in Pahala and left Hawai‘i for Washington State in 2013. She leaves behind two daughters.

Ebanez’s older sister Breeann described Ebanez as beautiful, feisty and kind-hearted. Breeann Ebanez posted on Facebook saying her sister was a victim of domestic violence.

“Our sister Brandy was loved wholeheartedly,” Breeann Ebanez wrote, adding anyone with information about the case should call Kennewick Police in Washington State. Police can reached at 509-628-0333.

A friend set up a GoFundMe account to help family with travel expenses and funeral arrangements.