Uninvited Resident: Man Discovered Living Secretly in Clackamas Condo's Crawl Space

A routine home sale in Clackamas County took a startling turn when the condo owner, preparing to finalize the transaction, uncovered an unsettling secret: an uninvited guest had been living stealthily in the property's crawl space.

The discovery unfolded when the owner, whose identity remains private, hired a contractor to perform some minor repairs on the condo, located in the 17000 block of Southeast Red Sunset Drive.

What the contractor found during their inspection sent chills down their spine – and ultimately led to the uncovering of a bizarre domestic invasion.

Far from an empty, dusty void, the crawl space had been meticulously transformed into a makeshift dwelling. Inside, authorities discovered an array of personal items including food, clothing, and even a generator, suggesting a deliberate attempt to establish a hidden, self-sufficient living arrangement.

This wasn't a quick hideout; it was a calculated setup designed for an extended stay.

Upon notification, Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the scene, quickly identifying the clandestine occupant as 55-year-old Daniel Ray Mize. Investigators believe Mize had been residing in the crawl space for several days, unnoticed by anyone until the contractor's keen eye revealed his presence.

Further investigation revealed that Mize had allegedly caused damage to a wall inside the condo itself, presumably to create easier access to his subterranean hideaway.

This act of vandalism, coupled with his unauthorized residency, led to his prompt arrest. Mize now faces serious charges, including second-degree burglary and first-degree criminal mischief, reflecting the severity of his actions and the unsettling nature of his hidden occupation.

The incident serves as a peculiar reminder for homeowners to remain vigilant, even in properties believed to be vacant, highlighting the extraordinary lengths some individuals may go to establish an illicit dwelling.

For the condo owner, what started as a standard real estate transaction became a memorable, albeit unsettling, encounter with the unexpected.