Elderly Couple Found Dead in Bermuda Dunes, Potential Link to Actor Impersonation
An elderly couple was discovered deceased in their residence in Bermuda Dunes, California. The case might be related to someone pretending to be a well-known actor.
The deceased were identified as 80-year-old Donald Whitaker and 79-year-old Karen Whitaker. Friends believe that Karen fell victim to a scammer impersonating Tom Selleck, as reported on Thursday by Fox News. This followed severe injuries she sustained on May 15.
Joy Maidecke, president of the East Valley Republican Women Patriots, mentioned that Karen was an active member of their group and had commented online about her friend’s passing. According to Maidecke, this is when the alleged scammer reached out, initiating what became a secretive interaction.
Maidecke recounted how the impersonator made romantic overtures towards Karen, solicited money, and ultimately wasted her time.
“They texted her claiming to be Tom Selleck, saying they had connections and shared a mutual acquaintance. That’s how things began. She was deeply invested in this aspect of her life, receiving messages from him daily, and family and friends started noticing the change,” Maidecke explained. ABC 7 also reported that Karen might have sent thousands of dollars to this individual.
Maidecke contacted Riverside County Adult Protective Services and mentioned that Karen’s husband discovered the situation when they visited the couple’s home.
However, attempts by her husband to clarify matters were unsuccessful, and as a result, her family canceled her credit card. Maidecke indicated that there were indications of early-stage dementia in Karen.
She noted that even after having her credit cards disconnected and being removed from accounts, “she was still able to find ways to send money and transfer it.”
In an update from Thursday, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office stated that homicide detectives are continuing their investigation.
Authorities commented that “the available evidence suggests this was a murder-suicide.” So far, no arrests have been made, but officials are actively working to identify those who may be involved.
