Photo: Redlands Police Department
A 62-year-old man, Michael Royce Sparks, has been arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with the disappearance of an elderly couple from a nudist resort in San Bernardino County, California. The couple, Stephanie Menard, 73, and her husband, Daniel, 79, were reported missing last Sunday (August 25) from the Olive Dell Ranch nudist resort. The couple's unlocked car was found near their home, with Stephanie's purse and both their cellphones left behind.
Sparks, who is a neighbor of the Menards, was arrested on Thursday night following a SWAT operation at his home. According to Redland public information officer Carl Baker, Sparks was found hiding underneath his home and was arrested. Baker also mentioned that a tip from someone at the resort led authorities to the suspect.
Although the couple's remains have not been found, there is evidence that leads authorities to believe they are still on the property. The arrest came after several attempts to contact Sparks at his home. When there was no response, law enforcement officers used an armored SWAT vehicle to tear down his door.
Details about a motive were not immediately available. Residents said they believe Sparks lived alone. The investigation is ongoing, and further updates are expected in the coming days.