Michael Royce Sparks, 62, has been arrested on suspicion of murder in the disappearance of an elderly couple, Stephanie, 73, and Daniel Menard, 79, from the Olive Dell Ranch nudist resort in San Bernardino County, as Redlands police confirmed on Friday. The couple went missing last Saturday, and their absence quickly rippled concern through their community. "They were an older couple, nice, they kept to themselves, they had their dog," Jim Hynd, a community member, told NBC Los Angeles.
Sparks, who is the neighbor of the missing couple, was taken into custody at Olive Dell Ranch after authorities received a tip about his potential involvement in the Menards' disappearance. The details of what led to the couple's sudden absence remain largely unknown, but a search effort involving K-9 units and an armored vehicle was utilized for the safety of officers.
After the couple was reported missing, their vehicle was found unlocked a stone's throw away from their home, instigating the fear that something untoward may have happened. Their personal belongings, including cell phones and Stephanie Menard's purse, were still at home, raising red flags for investigators. "Very suspicious for them to be gone," said Sandy Marinelli, a long-time friend of the Menards, in a conversation with CBS News Los Angeles.
Adding to the mystery is the couple's small white Shih Tzu, Cuddles, who is also missing. The Menards, known for their church attendance and community presence, were last seen on August 24, and friends have since then been aiding in the search efforts. "Dan was funny and he was sweet. It just plagues me. I can't believe somebody would do something like this to them," Tammie Wilkerson told Hoodline. With Daniel suffering from diabetes and dementia, the urgency of finding them is paramount.
The Redlands Police Department continues to ask for public assistance in the ongoing case and anyone with information is encouraged to get in touch at (909) 798-7681 or by emailing Detective Thomas Williams at [email protected]. As investigations proceed, a shadow hangs over the nudist ranch community as they await answers and hope for the safe return of the Menards and Cuddles.
