Authorities Investigate Human Remains Found in Neighbor’s Concrete Bunker Amid Search for Missing California Couple

Authorities are working to identify human remains discovered in a concrete bunker beneath the mobile home of a 62-year-old neighbor, Michael Royce Sparks, at a nudist resort in Redlands, California. Sparks has been arrested on suspicion of killing Daniel and Stephanie Menard, a couple missing since August 24. The remains were found in bags following a search prompted by cadaver dogs detecting the presence of a body on the suspect’s property.

The Menards’ neighbor and concerned friend Irene Engkraf alerted the police after noticing the couple had not attended church and their unlocked car was abandoned near their home. Upon searching the Menards’ house, Engkraf found their phones and Stephanie’s purse, prompting further investigation. Police later received a tip connecting Sparks to the couple’s disappearance.

Authorities tore into Sparks’ home after lengthy negotiations, eventually finding him barricaded inside with a rifle. He attempted to take his own life, but his weapon misfired, leading to his arrest. As the investigation continues, authorities are using heavy equipment to secure the potentially unstable bunker while gathering evidence. Sparks, who had previously expressed animosity toward the Menards, will appear in court on Tuesday and remains in custody without bail.

Friends and neighbors expressed shock and confusion, describing the Menards as kind, churchgoing people who didn’t deserve such a fate. The coroner’s office is working to confirm the identity of the remains, while the community mourns the likely loss of their beloved neighbors.