California Couple Found Dead at Nudist Ranch Died from Blunt Force Trauma, Autopsy Confirms

The bodies of a Southern California couple were discovered beneath their neighbour's home at a nudist ranch. An autopsy revealed that Daniel Menard, 79, and his wife Stephanie, 73, died from blunt force trauma to the head. The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department shared these findings on Tuesday, as reported by the Los Angeles Times.

Daniel and Stephanie Menard were last seen on August 24. A concerned friend reported them missing to the Redlands Police Department. Five days later, searchers found their remains in bags within a concrete bunker under the home of their neighbour, Michael Royce Sparks.

Neighbour Dispute Over Tree

Michael Royce Sparks, aged 62, was arrested and charged with homicide. He pleaded not guilty during his arraignment on September 9. Authorities have not disclosed a motive for the killings. However, a neighbour mentioned that Sparks had ongoing disputes with the Menards over a tree between their properties.

"Sparks didn't like the Menards," said neighbour Tammie Wilkerson to KTTV-TV. "He said it many times that he hated them, but I never thought he'd do something like this."

Unusual Discoveries

The couple's unlocked car was found near their residence at Olive Dell Ranch. Inside their home, both their phones and Stephanie Menard's purse were left untouched. Daniel Menard was known to be diabetic and suffered from dementia.

Olive Dell Ranch is described as a family-friendly nudist resort in Colton, California. According to its website, it is an "ideal spot to enjoy the nudist/naturist lifestyle whether visiting for the day or an overnight stay."

The investigation continues as authorities seek more information about the tragic incident involving the Menards and their neighbour.