Ongoing Search for Missing Elderly Couple from San Bernardino Nudist Resort
The search continues for an elderly couple, Stephanie Menard, 73, and her husband Daniel Menard, 79, who mysteriously disappeared over the weekend from the Olive Dell Ranch nudist resort in San Bernardino County. The couple, along with their small white Shih Tzu named Cuddles, has been missing since Saturday, and their disappearance has left the community in shock and fear.
Disappearance Details
According to the Redlands Police Department, Stephanie and Daniel Menard were last seen around 10 a.m. on Saturday at their home in the 26000 block of Keisel Road. Their locked car was found on the street where they lived, but their personal belongings, including Stephanie’s purse and both of their cell phones, were left inside their home, adding to the mystery of their sudden disappearance.
Health Concerns Add Urgency
The situation is particularly concerning because Daniel Menard suffers from dementia and diabetes, conditions that require constant attention. Friends and neighbors have expressed deep concern, noting that the couple was not known for taking long walks and would not typically leave home without their car. The unusual circumstances surrounding their disappearance have heightened fears for their safety.
Community Reacts with Concern
Friends of the Menards are desperately hoping for their safe return. Sandy Marinelli, a friend of the couple for more than a decade, expressed her distress: “I just want them back. They don’t deserve this. … They’re just good people. They go to church. They don’t deserve this.” The Menards’ absence was first noticed when they failed to prepare for their usual Sunday church service, prompting a neighbor to check on them and discover the unsettling signs.
Increasing Fears Amid Local Crime Surge
The disappearance of the Menards has occurred during a time of heightened anxiety in the region, as the community has recently experienced an unusual surge in crimes, including vandalism and assaults. Tammy Wilkerson, another friend of the couple, voiced her fears: “Danny was funny and sweet. It just hurts me. I can’t believe someone would do something like that to them. My heart hurts because they didn’t deserve this.”
Despite the growing concerns among residents, the police have not yet reported any signs of foul play. Carl Baker, a spokesman for the city of Redlands, stated, “I can’t really talk about it; we’re certainly exploring all avenues.” The search efforts have included the use of sniffer dogs from the Riverside Sheriff’s Office and a helicopter from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office, but so far, no leads have emerged.
Community’s Plea for Help
The community has rallied together, with neighbors searching the surrounding areas of Reche Canyon on foot and horseback, but their efforts have so far been in vain. Tammy Wilkerson made a heartfelt plea: “Dan, Stephanie, if you see this, find some way to let us know to come back, we miss you. We love you and we miss you and we need you back.”
Conclusion: A Community in Distress
The disappearance of Stephanie and Daniel Menard has left the San Bernardino community on edge, as they continue to hope for the couple’s safe return. The ongoing search efforts highlight the urgent need for answers, and anyone with information is urged to come forward. If you have any details that could assist in locating the Menards, please contact RPD detectives at (909) 798-7681.
This tragic situation serves as a reminder of the vulnerability of our elderly loved ones and the importance of community vigilance. The entire community holds its breath, waiting for news that Stephanie, Daniel, and Cuddles will be safely reunited with their family and friends.
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