Details about the woman found deceased under the Ballard Bridge have come to light, although the cause of her death is still under investigation.

Seattle Police Department and King County Medical Examiner are still investigating the death of Ann Zachariasen, 45, who was found under the Ballard Bridge on Nov. 19.

SPD received the report around 6 a.m. that day. They reported that there was no obvious sign of trauma to the woman. By trauma SPD means no abrasions, cuts, stabbings, bruises or gunshot wounds. SPD could not report if there were any weapons, drug paraphernalia or witnesses at the scene.

KCME released Zachariasen’s name on Nov. 20, but the manner and cause of death are still pending. KCME is waiting on studies and test results that could take up to eight weeks. They could not release the specifics of tests being conducted; however tissue testing, toxicology and neurological testing are the kinds of tests KCME reported could take that amount of time.

Rex Hohlbein, Executive Director of Facing Homelessness, was a friend of Zachariasen. According to Holhbein, Zachariasen lived in Ballard all her life. He said that Zachariasen had struggled with homelessness and substance abuse for most of her life.

“My heart, and everyone's heart that had the pleasure of Ann's love, is screaming with sadness,” wrote Hohlbein.

“There is nothing that can be written here that will convey the loss of no longer having Ann here with us, she touched so many with her beautiful light, her open honest way, sharing with you exactly who she is, leading with courage as she confronted what was a life of homelessness, a life of constant struggle.”

According to Hohlbein, a week ago Zachariasen received notification of permanent housing at the Nyer Urness House in Ballard. The Nyer Urness House provides 80 units of permanent housing for adults and operates on a housing first philosophy with case managers and health care onsite. Hohlbein said that the opportunity for permanent housing was a “tremendous life moment” for Zachariasen and that it made “the news of her death that much more startling, that much more tragic.”

Hohlein also said that Zachariasen’s daughter and two grandchildren were a source of strength for her while battling substance abuse.

“We love you Ann; our lives were enriched by sharing time with you, thank you for the genuine friendship you gave to so many in this caring community, to those living inside and outside.”