COLTON, CA – A California man has been apprehended by law enforcement in connection with the mysterious disappearance of a married couple and their pet dog. The couple resided in a nudist community. The Redlands Police Department confirmed the arrest of 62-year-old Michael Royce Sparks on Friday, charging him with the murder of Daniel Menard, 79, and Stephanie Menard, 73.
The Menards were last seen at their home around 10 a.m. on August 24, 2024. Their vehicle was discovered unlocked a short distance from their residence on the same day. Inside the house, authorities found Stephanie Menard’s purse and both of the couple’s mobile phones. The couple’s small white Shih Tzu, Cuddles, was also reported missing.
The Menards lived in Colton, California, at the Olive Dell Ranch, an RV park that promotes itself as a preferred nudist resort for families and couples. Colton is approximately 55 miles east of downtown Los Angeles.
Authorities have expressed doubt that the Menards would have left of their own accord. Daniel Menard suffers from dementia and diabetes, according to a Facebook update. Stephanie Menard, who uses a cane to walk, would not have been able to leave without assistance. Friends of the couple echoed these sentiments, stating that it would have been impossible for the Menards to have left their home without their essential belongings.
On Thursday, police executed a search warrant on a nearby residence after receiving information that a person potentially involved in the case was present. Despite deploying heavy-duty equipment and armed officers, no one was found at the location.
The method of Sparks’ eventual capture remains unclear. Friends of the Menards revealed that the couple was involved in a lawsuit against the ranch and had been subjected to harassment. They expressed concerns that this could be related to their disappearance.
The San Bernardino Sheriff’s Office reported that Sparks is currently detained without bond at the West Valley Detention Center. His court appearance is scheduled for September 3.