Authorities investigating the disappearance of a California couple, Daniel and Stephanie Menard, have discovered unidentified human remains in bags in a concrete “bunker” underneath the mobile home of their neighbor at a nudist resort. The neighbor, Michael Royce Sparks, 62, has been arrested on suspicion of killing the couple, who had not been seen since August 24. The Redlands Police Department is working to identify the remains found at the suspect’s home, with cadaver dogs indicating “the presence of at least one body” at the property.
The search for evidence at the suspect’s home has been ongoing, with the police confident that the couple has died and are still on the property. Authorities ran a camera under the suspect’s home and found Sparks barricaded in the concrete space. He was armed with a rifle and attempted to shoot himself when he was discovered, but the weapon misfired. Sparks is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday and remains in custody without bail. Investigators are working to remove debris from the space under the home to continue searching for evidence.
The Menards, who were 79 and 73 years old, respectively, had an unlocked car found near their house at the Olive Dell Ranch nudist resort. Irene Engkraf, a concerned neighbor, reported them missing after noticing their absence from church and seeing their abandoned car. She called 911 and searched for news of her friends, leading to the discovery of the suspect’s potential involvement. Friends of the Menards describe them as sweet and churchgoing individuals, expressing confusion and shock over their disappearance.
One community member mentioned tension between Sparks and the Menards, with the suspect expressing hatred towards Daniel Menard for trimming trees. Friends of the couple testify to their kindness and innocence, stating that they do not deserve the circumstances surrounding their disappearance. Longtime friend Sandy Marinelli emphasized the goodness of the Menards, and their church involvement, urging for their safe return.
The investigation into the Menards’ disappearance and the arrest of Michael Royce Sparks have left the community reeling from shock and loss. The discovery of human remains at the suspect’s home has raised concerns and questions among neighbors and friends of the couple. Police have continued their search for evidence and details surrounding the case, working to piece together the events leading up to the couple’s disappearance and potential demise. The suspect’s arrest and lack of cooperation have added complexity to the case, with further developments expected in the coming days.
With ongoing efforts to identify the human remains found at the suspect’s home, investigators are determined to bring closure to the Menards’ case. Friends and community members continue to mourn the couple’s disappearance, emphasizing their innocence and kindness. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the couple’s disappearance and alleged killing have prompted a significant response from authorities and the community, as they work to unravel the mystery and bring justice to those involved. The search for truth and justice in this complex and tragic case continues, as those impacted by the loss of the Menards seek answers and closure.
