A family welfare check in Chula Vista spiraled into a homicide investigation after a woman who went to her mother’s home over a tenant-landlord dispute was later found dead in a nearby park, according to police. Loved ones reported her missing when she did not return, and officers soon uncovered what investigators now describe as an active homicide probe.
Detectives responded around 1:51 PM yesterday to a home in the 600 block of Via Curvada after the family asked for a welfare check, according to CBS 8. Investigators say the tenant, identified as 41-year-old Robert Watkins, told detectives he murdered the missing woman and had disposed of her body near the residence, although he did not give an exact spot. A person walking a dog later reported something suspicious in the bushes at Paseo del Rey Park, where detectives located the woman’s body. Police said Watkins was taken to San Diego County Jail and booked on a murder charge.
Where the body was found
Detectives found the victim in the brush at Paseo del Rey Park, a neighborhood park listed at 750 Paseo Del Rey. The park’s location and general information appear in local park directories, according to RecPlanet.
Suspect in custody
Chula Vista police identified the tenant as Robert Watkins and said he is being held on a murder charge at the San Diego County Jail. Detectives told CBS 8 that the investigation remains active as they continue to collect evidence and interview potential witnesses.
How to help
Anyone with information is asked to contact San Diego County Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477 or submit an anonymous tip through their website at sdcrimestoppers.org. Local authorities are also asking residents who were in the area of the 600 block of Via Curvada or Paseo del Rey Park on Monday to share any video or observations that might help detectives.
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