Vallejo Woman Found Murdered Hidden Behind Wall, Suspect Arrested

Authorities say 28-year-old Renia Lewis of Berkeley, last seen Sept. 26 near 14th Street and Starr Avenue in Vallejo, was reported missing and an Ebony Alert was issued as the California Highway Patrol and Vallejo police — who also notified the FBI — searched for her. Initial welfare checks at a 14th Street residence turned up no sign of Lewis, but detectives returned with a search warrant and discovered a concealed entry/secret wall into the attic where they found human remains believed to be Lewis. A 41-year-old man identified in reports as Douglas (Irwin) Shaw was arrested at work, allegedly confessed to the killing, and was booked on suspicion of murder. Family members described the house as a hoarder-style dwelling, said Lewis’s phone was later found on the roof of a nearby school, and expressed devastation, with relatives calling for the suspect to face severe punishment. Vallejo Police Chief Jason Ta called the case a heartbreaking, senseless act of violence, and investigators urged anyone with information to contact Detectives Zach Horton or William Carpenter or use the anonymous tip line. Authorities continue their investigation, have released Lewis’s physical description and last known location, and are seeking public assistance.