Police investigating the disappearance of a couple from a California nudist resort say they have found human remains in the basement of the home of a neighbor who is now charged with murder.
The Redlands Police Department said in a statement that officers entered “the basement area of the home where murder suspect Michael Sparks was located on Thursday” in Olive Dell Ranch in Colton on Friday and “began removing bags of evidence from the location.” Stephanie and Daniel Menard were last seen on Saturday, August 24.
“The medical examiner confirmed the evidence included human remains,” the Redlands Police Department said, adding that “shortly after beginning to remove the evidence, the space exhibited signs of collapse and all personnel were evacuated.”
The body is currently being examined by the local medical examiner's office.
California nudist resort neighbor charged with murder after couple disappears
Michael Sparks, 62, is charged with the murders of Daniel Menard, 79, and Stephanie Menard, 73. (Redlands Police Department)
City of Redlands spokesman Carl Baker told reporters Friday that investigators are “confident” the Menards are dead and still on the Sparks property.
Baker added that Sparks was found hiding under a home Thursday night after not responding to police for several hours.
Investigators said the Menards were reported missing by a friend on Sunday and were last seen at their resort home on Saturday.
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According to police, the Menards were last seen on Saturday, August 24. Daniel was 79 and Stephanie was 73, according to the Los Angeles Times. (Redlands Police Department)
“The Menards' unlocked vehicle was found in the roadway near their home that same day. Stephanie Menard's purse was found inside the home, along with her and Daniel's cell phones,” the Redlands Police Department said in a statement. “The Menards' small white Shih Tzu, Cuddles, is also missing.”
Sparks is currently being charged with murder. The motive for the murder is unclear.
Olive Dell Ranch describes itself on its website as “Southern California's favorite nudist resort for families and couples.”
The Redlands Police Department said the Menards' dog, Cuddles, has never been found. (Redlands Police Department)
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“It's an ideal place to enjoy the nudist/naturist lifestyle, whether for a day trip or overnight stay,” the description adds.
