Monterey Co Sheriff @MCoSheriff

Happy Fourth of July! 🚓🇺🇸 As we commemorate the 250th Anniversary of America, Monterey County Sheriff’s Office wishes our community a safe and Happy Independence Day! #America250 #USA #4thofJuly #IndependenceDay #SheriffTinaNieto

PRESS RELEASE - Ghost Gun Recovered Following Community Report of Suspicious Activity - On 7-2-26, at 0814 hours, Deputies responded to the area of Cornwall Street and Bellinzona Avenue, Salinas, after a concerned neighbor reported several subjects outside of a silver 2010 Chevrolet Traverse drinking “Buzzballs” and urinating in public. Sheriff Tina M. Nieto emphasized that the incident demonstrates the value of community members speaking up when something doesn’t seem right. “This case highlights the important role our community plays in keeping Monterey County safe. A concerned neighbor made the call, and our deputies responded professionally to a situation that proved to be much more serious than it first appeared. Public safety is strongest when our community and law enforcement work together.” When deputies arrived, they contacted seven occupants inside the vehicle, several of whom appeared to be under the age of 21. Deputies smelled the strong odor of alcohol coming from within the vehicle and saw numerous empty “Buzzballs” on the floorboards. As deputies attempted to detain one of the occupants, a 15-year-old male juvenile, he became combative, refused to follow directives, and actively resisted the deputies. During the struggle a 20-year-old passenger, later identified as Elizabeth Sandoval of Salinas, began to interfere with the deputy’s efforts to arrest the juvenile by pushing the deputy. Sandoval was pepper sprayed while the 15-year-old juvenile was tased. The 15-year-old then attempted to flee but fell into a ditch on the side of the road. Both Sandoval and the 15-year-old juvenile were handcuffed and arrested. During the commotion, two male occupants and one female fled on foot down the drainage ditch. Deputies later searched the vehicle and found a loaded 9mm “ghost gun” under the rear passenger seat. AMR and Fire responded to the scene and medically assessed the arrestees. The 15-year-old juvenile was transported to Natividad Hospital by AMR and was later cited and released into the custody of his parents. Sandoval and another female occupant, 29-year-old Martiza Aguilar of Watsonville, were transported and booked into the Monterey County Jail. Through continued investigation, Sheriff’s Detectives identified another 15-year-old male juvenile as the individual who possessed and concealed the “ghost gun” before fleeing the scene. They later located him at his residence where he was arrested and later booked into Monterey County Juvenile Hall. As a result of the investigation, the following individuals were arrested or cited on the following charges: Elizabeth Sandoval was booked into Monterey County Jail on charges of: • 69 PC Resisting an Executive Officer, Felony • 32 PC Accessory After the Fact, Felony • 241(c) PC Battery on a Peace Officer, Misdemeanor • 148(a)(1) PC Delaying, Resisting, Obstructing a Peace Officer, Misdemeanor The 15-year-old juvenile was cited and released from Natividad Hospital for: • 148(a)(1) PC Delaying, Resisting, Obstructing a Peace Officer, Misdemeanor • 647(f) PC Public Intoxication, Misdemeanor • 241(c) PC Battery on a Peace Officer, Misdemeanor Maritza Aguilar was booked into the Monterey County Jail on charges of: • 272(a)(1) PC Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor, Misdemeanor • 23222 CVC Open Container of Alcohol in a Vehicle, Infraction The other 15-year-old juvenile was booked into Monterey County Juvenile Hall on numerous weapons charges as well as delaying, resisting, and obstructing a peace officer.

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PRESS RELEASE - Monterey County Sheriff’s Office Jail ADA Coordinator Selected for National Corrections Leadership Role - The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office is proud to announce that our Jail ADA Coordinator, Louie Pereira, has been selected to serve on the National Corrections ADA Coordinator Information Sharing Group (NCACISG) Steering Committee, a national leadership committee dedicated to advancing ADA compliance and accessibility within correctional facilities across the country. Pereira earned this appointment following his participation in a National Institute of Corrections strategic planning initiative that brought together ADA professionals from across the United States to identify best practices, improve training, and help shape the future of ADA compliance in corrections. His selection recognizes both his dedication to the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office and his expertise in correctional ADA compliance. It also reflects our agency’s ongoing commitment to continuous improvement, professional excellence, and ensuring our correctional facilities meet the highest standards of accessibility and service. Sheriff Tina M. Nieto praised Pereira’s accomplishment. “Louie’s selection to this national leadership committee is a tremendous honor and testament to his professionalism, knowledge, and commitment to improving correctional operations. His work has helped strengthen our organization, and this appointment gives Monterey County a voice in shaping national best practices. We are proud that Louie will represent our agency while bringing valuable knowledge and innovative ideas back to benefit our staff, our facilities, and the people we serve.” As a member of the Steering Committee, Pereira will collaborate with correctional professionals from across the nation to develop ADA guidance, training, and best practices that will improve accessibility and operational excellence in correctional facilities throughout California and across the nation. #MontereySheriff #MCSO #SheriffTinaNieto

Honoring service and welcoming new deputies! During Monterey County Sheriff’s Office Swearing-In Ceremony, we welcomed new deputies and Search and Rescue volunteers as they took their oath of office. Letters of Appreciation, Awards of Excellence, Life Saving Medals, a Meritorious Service Award, a Unit Citation, and Letters and Certificates of Commendation were also awarded to sworn staff and professional personnel for their service to the community. Monterey County Sheriff’s Office ceremonially welcomed the appointment of Chief Deputy – Enforcement Eric Bixler. Prior to joining Monterey County Sheriff’s Office, Chief Bixler proudly devoted over 35 years to public service and has experience in leading major task forces with the FBI, US Marshals, and Homeland Security. Additionally, personnel were recognized for their dedicated years of service, including milestones between 5 - 35+ years. Congratulations to everyone and thank you for serving our community! #MontereySheriff #MCSO #SheriffTinaNieto instagram.com/p/DaRKsHBjwi-/…

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At Monterey Peninsula Pride, Monterey County Sheriff Tina M. Nieto was honored to join the community and be a part of the celebration. #PrideMonth 🚓🌈 instagram.com/p/DaMJMlaGTt7/…

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PRESS RELEASE - Canadian National Sentenced To Two Consecutive Life Sentences in Prison For November 2024 Attempted Murder in Monterey County - On June 25th, 2026, the Monterey County District Attorney’s Office announced that Devin Wolfgang Vanderhoef, aged 26, of North Vancouver, British Columbia was sentenced to two consecutive life sentences for the willful, deliberate and premeditated attempted murder of two people. He was also sentenced to serve five consecutive years for personally inflicting great bodily injury and personally using a weapon during the commission of the crimes. Vanderhoef met the female victim through online video gaming. In November 2024, Vanderhoef flew from Canada to Monterey County, purchased knives, handcuffs and duct tape, and surveilled the home and workplace of the female victim. He decided to pose as an Amazon package delivery person to gain access to the victim’s house. On the night of the attack, he did so and ultimately forced his way into the house where he stabbed the female victim’s boyfriend, causing great bodily injury. Both victims were able to flee the residence, so the defendant followed them outside continuing his attack. During the struggle that ensued, the male victim was able to disarm Vanderhoef and stab him repeatedly. However, Vanderhoef tackled the female victim as she attempted to flee back inside the house where he strangled her until she could not breathe. Vanderhoef confessed that he had been planning the attack for a month before flying to California and that his plan was to “actually kill someone.” Monterey County Sheriff Tina Nieto stated, “I want to recognize the exceptional work of our detectives and thank the Monterey County District Attorney's Office for their partnership. Their efforts reflect the unwavering commitment of law enforcement and prosecutors to protect our community and hold violent offenders accountable.” This investigation reflects the reality of the world we live in today. We remind you that the internet is a powerful tool that allows opportunities to connect with others, but it is also providing people with new ways to deceive and exploit unsuspecting victims. When using social media, messaging platforms, or online gaming, you cannot assume the person on the other end is who they claim to be or that they are your friend. Sheriff Nieto added, “We hope this case serves as a powerful reminder that online interactions can carry real-world consequences, and we encourage parents and community members to remain engaged, informed, and proactive in protecting themselves and their children.” Darius Avery Whyte, a Canadian National also involved in this incident, accepted a plea deal. He was sentenced on April 3rd, 2026.

In the interest of full transparency, we have to admit... we borrowed this post idea from our friends at the Santa Clara Police Department. (Thanks, neighbors.) 🇺🇸🎆 As the 4th of July approaches, before you dial 9-1-1, ask yourself one important question: Is the cat shooting back? If the answer is no, it’s probably not a 911 emergency. Now that we have your attention... Every year leading up to the 4th of July, our dispatch center gets flooded with calls that sound something like this: “Hi... I hear fireworks... somewhere.” We believe you. We hear them too. The problem is that unless you can provide a specific location, there isn’t much we can do. Calls like these tie up emergency phone lines that may be needed by someone experiencing a fire, serious injury, or another life-threatening emergency. A friendly reminder: All amateur fireworks are illegal in the unincorporated areas of Monterey County. Yes... even the little ones. Even the “safe” ones. Even the ones you’ve had sitting in the garage since that road trip to another state years ago. (We know some of you are already warming up your keyboards. We don’t make the laws—we just enforce them.) If you have a specific location where fireworks are being used, please call our non-emergency line at (831) 755-5111. Keep in mind that the 4th of July is one of the busiest days of the year for our dispatchers, so hold times may be longer than usual. If your report sounds like you’re trying to describe where Bigfoot was last seen—“I think it’s somewhere over there...”—it’s probably not enough information for a deputy to respond. Please save 911 for real emergencies such as fires, injuries, or other life-threatening situations. Let the professionals handle the pyrotechnics. Your neighbors, your pets, our Monterey County fire agencies, and your local dispatchers will all appreciate it. Have a safe and happy Independence Day! 🇺🇸

Amended Version: PRESS RELEASE - Monterey County Sheriff’s Coroner Office Releases Identities of Greenfield Homicide Victims - The Monterey County Sheriff’s Coroner Office has released the identities of the two victims involved in a double homicide that occurred in the City of Greenfield on June 22, 2026. The victims have been identified as: Elizabeth Saavedra, 32 years old, of Soledad Aldo Juan Mandujano, 26 years old, of King City The Monterey County Sheriff’s Coroner Office extends its condolences to the families and loved ones of both victims during this difficult time. Any further inquiries regarding the circumstances of the investigation should be directed to the Greenfield Police Department, which is the lead agency investigating this case.

PRESS RELEASE - Monterey County Sheriff’s Coroner Office Releases Identities of Greenfield Homicide Victims - The Monterey County Sheriff’s Coroner Office has released the identities of the two victims involved in a double homicide that occurred in the City of Greenfield on June 22, 2026. The victims have been identified as: Elizabeth Saavedra, 32 years old, of Soledad Aldo Juan Manjujano, 26 years old, of King City The Monterey County Sheriff’s Coroner Office extends its condolences to the families and loved ones of both victims during this difficult time. Any further inquiries regarding the circumstances of the investigation should be directed to the Greenfield Police Department, which is the lead agency investigating this case.

Several days ago, Monterey County Sheriff’s deputies were visited by two curious puppies. It turned out that the puppies had been taken from their rightful owner and deputies were able to coordinate a reunion. Deputies discovered the two puppies were not alone, and they were part of a litter of nine puppies waiting to be reunited with their family. The puppies were safely returned to their seven siblings, their mother, and their owner. While the reunion was a joyful one, caring for nine growing puppies is no small task. The owner later reached out for assistance to help ensure the puppies received the care and attention they deserve. Our deputies worked with local animal welfare organizations to find support, and we are incredibly grateful to Red Dog Ranch Animal Rescue for stepping in to foster the puppies. We would also like to thank SPCA Monterey County for providing food for the mother and puppies, and Peace of Mind Dog Rescue for helping cover their medical care, including spaying/neutering. As for their dreams of joining the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office K9 Unit, following an unofficial review by K9 Tonus, it was determined that the puppies’ current strengths lie in sleeping through briefings, accepting belly rubs, and being exceptionally adorable. Sheriff Tina Nieto stated, “These nine puppies remain excellent candidates for adoption into loving homes. They have brought a great deal of happiness to those who have cared for them, and we have no doubt they will continue to spread joy wherever they go.” We have received many inquiries from community members asking how they can help. Those interested in supporting the puppies with food, supplies, or toys can visit rdranimalrescue.com. Once the puppies reach adoptable age, they will be available for adoption through the rescue organization. The mother will be reunited with her owner. Please contact Red Dog Ranch Animal Rescue for additional information.

Art That Serves, an organization that serves incarcerated populations through artistry, brought music to Monterey County Jail. Recording artist, Matt Butler, also shared his personal message about sobriety and recovery to offer hope and encouragement for change.

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As part of this investigation, deputies confirmed that firearms were used during the commission of the crime. While ammunition was recovered from one of the vehicles involved, no firearms were located. Investigators believe one or more firearms may have been discarded from vehicles at some point during or after the incident. Our law enforcement partners have been notified and are actively assisting in efforts to locate any discarded weapons. Out of an abundance of caution, we ask members of the public to remain vigilant. If anyone locates a firearm or any item they believe may be related to this investigation, they should not touch, move, or handle it. Instead, immediately leave the item where it is and call 911 so law enforcement can respond and safely recover it. Protecting the safety of our community remains our highest priority, and we appreciate the public's cooperation as this investigation continues. The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office wishes to thank the Salinas Police Department and both the Monterey and San Jose divisions of the California Highway Patrol for their assistance during this incident. Anyone with information related to this information is asked to contact the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office. Booking Charges are as follows: Matthew Jamarius Gaston Higgins was booked into Monterey County Jail for the following: •PC 211- Robbery (Felony) •PC 459- Burglary (Felony) •PC 182- Criminal Conspiracy (Felony) •PC 466-Possession of Burglary Tools (Misdemeanor) •PC 135- Destruction of Evidence (Misdemeanor) •CVC 2800.2 (a)- Recklessly Evading a Peace Officer (Felony) •PC 272 (a)(1)- Contribute to the Delinquency of a Minor (Misdemeanor) BAIL: $80,000 Kahleed Johnson was booked into Monterey County Jail and was booked for the following: •PC 211 - Robbery (Felony) •PC 459 - Burglary (Felony) •PC 182- Criminal Conspiracy (Felony) •PC 466-Possession of Burglary Tools (Misdemeanor) •PC 135- Destruction of Evidence (Misdemeanor) •PC 272 (a)(1)- Contribute to the Delinquency of a Minor (Misdemeanor) BAIL: $80,000 Juvenile Male was booked into Monterey County Juvenile Hall for the following: •PC 211- Robbery (Felony) •PC 459- Burglary (Felony) •PC 182- Criminal Conspiracy (Felony) •PC 466-Possession of Burglary Tools (Misdemeanor) •PC 135- Destruction of Evidence (Misdemeanor) Damija Danyel McGee was transported to San Francisco General Hospital for treatment ofInjuries. An arrest warrant will be sought for the following charges: •PC 211- Robbery (Felony) •PC 459- Burglary (Felony) •PC 182- Criminal Conspiracy (Felony) •PC 466-Possession of Burglary Tools (Misdemeanor) •PC 135- Destruction of Evidence (Misdemeanor) •CVC 2800.2 (a)- Recklessly Evading a Peace Officer (Felony) •PC 30305(a)-Felon in Possession of Ammunition (Felony) •PC 3455 (a)- PRCS Violation (Felony) •PC 272 (a)(1)- Contribute to the Delinquency of a Minor (Misdemeanor) Charles Terrence JR Everetts was transported to San Francisco General Hospital for treatment of injuries. An arrest warrant will be sought for the following charges: •PC 211- Robbery (Felony) •PC 459- Burglary (Felony) •PC 182- Criminal Conspiracy (Felony) •PC 466-Possession of Burglary Tools (Misdemeanor) •PC 135- Destruction of Evidence (Misdemeanor) •PC 272 (a)(1)- Contribute to the Delinquency of a Minor (Misdemeanor) Juvenile Male was booked into Monterey County Juvenile Hall for the following charges: •PC 211- Robbery (Felony) •PC 459- Burglary (Felony) •PC 182- Criminal Conspiracy (Felony) •PC 466-Possession of Burglary Tools (Misdemeanor) •PC 135- Destruction of Evidence (Misdemeanor)

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PRESS RELEASE - MCSO Deputies Arrest Multiple Suspects After Early Morning Burglary at Cannibis Facility That Led to Multiple Vehicle Pursuits Across Multiple Counties - The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office has arrested 2 adults and 2 juveniles related to an early morning burglary at a cannabis greenhouse facility that resulted in two vehicle pursuits ending in San Benito County and San Francisco. Two additional adults are facing multiple felony charges. On 6/14/26, just after 4:00 AM, deputies were dispatched to a burglary in progress at a cannabis greenhouse facility along the 26,800 block of Encinal Road in the unincorporated area of Monterey County just south of Salinas. A security guard reported multiple vehicles, and multiple armed subjects had accessed the business by cutting through a fence. The suspects were reported to be taking processed cannabis. While responding, deputies were able to locate vehicles they believed were involved in the burglary. One deputy encountered and attempted to stop a red Honda Accord which failed to yield. The vehicle led deputies on a pursuit into San Benito County and then into Santa Clara County. San Jose CHP units took over the pursuit which continued into the City of San Francisco where it ended after the vehicle crashed. Among the items recovered from the vehicle were ammunition, burglary tools and large amounts of cannabis. Damijia Danyel McGee, age 25 of Oakland and Charles Terrance JR Everetts, age 22 of Oakland were transported to SF General Hospital for injuries. McGee was found to have an outstanding felony no-bail warrant for violation of his state parole terms. Charges will be filed with the Monterey County District Attorney’s Office. A 16-year-old male from Richmond was also arrested. He was booked into Monterey County Juvenile Hall. A Monterey County Sheriff’s Office sergeant pursued a second vehicle, described as a gray colored Hyundai Sonata. The vehicle also failed to yield. Assistance was requested and provided by the Salinas Police Department. While fleeing, occupants of the Hyundai began tossing out bags of cannabis through the windows. The vehicle lost control after losing a wheel and crashed into brush in the area of Highway 101 just north of Highway 129 in San Benito County. The driver and two other occupants were arrested without incident. Among the items recovered from the second vehicle were large bags of cannabis, burglary tools and other indicia commonly associated with the crime of burglary. Arrested were Mathew Jamarius Gaston Higgins, age 18 of Oakland and Kahleed Johnson, age 19 of Oakland. A 17-year-old male juvenile of Oakland was also arrested and booked into Monterey County Juvenile Hall. A third vehicle was reported to be involved. That vehicle was not located. Deputies are currently following up on leads to identify and locate the vehicle and its occupants. “We have investigated several recent burglaries targeting marijuana processing facilities throughout Monterey County. In each of those cases, our deputies and detectives have worked tirelessly to identify, locate, and arrest those responsible. I want to be clear, we will not tolerate criminal activity that targets our local businesses,” stated Monterey County Sheriff Tina Nieto. “Marijuana processing facilities are lawful businesses operating within our county and deserve the same level of protection as any other business. If you choose to commit these crimes in Monterey County, we will find you, arrest you, and work closely with the District Attorney’s Office to ensure you are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Our message is simple, if you come to Monterey County to victimize businesses, expect to be caught.”

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PRESS RELEASE - MCSO Deputies Investigating Early Morning Burglary at Cannibis Facility That Led to Multiple Vehicle Pursuits and Multiple Arrests - The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an early morning burglary that has led to multiple vehicle pursuits and has resulted in multiple arrests. On 6/14/26, just after 4:00 AM, deputies were informed of a burglary in progress at a cannabis greenhouse facility along the 26,800 block of Encinal Road in the unincorporated area of Monterey County. Multiple vehicles and armed subjects were reported to be involved. Deputies responded and encountered vehicles believed to be involved, traveling along Old Stage Road. Both vehicles failed to yield to deputies. One vehicle was pursued into San Benito County and was ultimately stopped in San Francisco by the California Highway Patrol. A second vehicle was also pursued and came to a stop after losing control in the area of Highway 101 and Highway 129. This is an active investigation. Multiple people have been arrested, and property has been recovered. The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office wishes to thank the Salinas Police Department and California Highway Patrol for their assistance during this incident. No additional information will be released at this time.

PRESS RELEASE - MCSO Ag Crimes Detectives Arrest Subject For Over $50,000 in Copper Wire Thefts - The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office Agricultural Crimes Unit has been investigating a series of ongoing copper wire thefts throughout Monterey County. During the investigation, detectives identified a suspect using surveillance cameras and Flock automated license plate readers. The suspect was identified as 30-year-old, Filadelfo Osorio Diaz, of Patterson. Detectives authored search warrants and conducted surveillance as part of the investigation. On June 11, 2026, detectives contacted Diaz who agreed to come in and speak to them. During an interview, Diaz admitted to the theft of copper wire from multiple agricultural properties in Monterey County and other thefts in surrounding counties. The estimated total loss associated with the thefts in Monterey County alone exceeds $50,000. Diaz was recycling the stolen copper wire at metal recycling businesses in the Central Valley. Diaz was taken into custody and booked into the Monterey County Jail for multiple felony violations including: 6 counts of 487(a)PC – Grand theft; 6 counts 594(a)(2) PC – Vandalism; 1 count of 459 PC – Burglary 1 count of 182(a)(1) PC – Conspiracy Bail is set at $20,000 Monterey County’s agricultural industry produces billions of dollars in crops and livestock each year, making it one of the most productive agricultural regions in the nation and a critical driver of the local economy. When agricultural equipment is stolen, the impact extends far beyond the value of the equipment itself. These crimes can delay planting and harvesting operations, disrupt business activities, increase operating costs, and negatively affect the livelihoods of farmers, ranchers, and agricultural workers who depend on the industry. Sheriff Tina Nieto stated, “Recent arrests made by our detectives demonstrate our ongoing commitment to holding offenders accountable and sends a clear message that agricultural theft and fraud will not be tolerated in Monterey County.” The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office Agricultural Crimes Unit remains committed to protecting our agricultural community through proactive investigations and targeted enforcement efforts.

Two very enthusiastic recruits stopped by the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office to inquire about future opportunities with our K9 Unit. While both candidates demonstrated strong teamwork skills, excellent napping abilities, and an eagerness to receive belly rubs, neither was able to remain awake long enough to complete the application process. After a thorough evaluation, it was determined that their current qualifications include: Advanced Sleeping Techniques Expert Cuddle Operations Unauthorized Snack Detection Patrol of Soft Blankets and Dog Beds The K9 Unit has agreed to revisit their applications in approximately 12-18 months, once they have mastered basic commands and can stay awake through an entire interview. Until then, these future deputies will continue their specialized training in naps, treats, and being adorable.

PRESS RELEASE - Family of Deceased Male Located Thanks to Community Support - The Monterey County Sheriff’s Coroner Office announced today that the family of 53-year-old Pedro Sousa Garcia has been located. On June 9th, 2026, the Monterey County Sheriff’s Coroner Office requested the public’s help in locating the family of 53-year-old Pedro Sousa Garcia, who passed away on May 7th, 2026, in the City of Salinas. The Coroner’s Office had exhausted all available information and attempts to locate his family were unsuccessful. “Social media has become a powerful tool for connecting with our community and reaching people in ways that traditional databases and records searches sometimes cannot,” said Sheriff Tina Nieto. “In this case, our public request for assistance generated valuable information that helped us locate Mr. Garcia’s family. The response we received demonstrates the strength of community partnerships and how, by working together, we can help reunite families and provide the closure and dignity their loved ones deserve during a difficult time.” The Monterey County Sheriff’s Coroner Office is grateful for the overwhelming support from the community. Every share, comment, and lead contributed to this successful outcome and helped ensure Mr. Garcia’s family could be notified and given the opportunity to make appropriate arrangements for their loved one.

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PRESS RELEASE - Monterey County Sheriff’s Coroner Office Announces Identification in Viejo Road Human Remains Investigation - The Monterey County Sheriff’s Coroner Office has confirmed the identity of human remains that were discovered on Viejo Road in an unincorporated area of Monterey County. On December 29, 2025, Monterey County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to the area of Viejo Road after a land surveyor reported locating what appeared to be a human skull. Deputies responded to the scene and confirmed the discovery. Over the course of several days, investigators processed the area and recovered additional human skeletal remains. A forensic and anthropological examination was conducted; however, investigators were unable to determine the cause or manner of death. Through DNA analysis conducted by the California Department of Justice Jan Bashinski DNA Laboratory, the remains were positively identified as Corey Allen Ringer of Monterey. At the time his remains were located, Ringer would have been 56 years old. Investigators determined that Ringer had been reported missing in February 2013. His last known contact with family and friends was reported to have occurred in February 2012. The Monterey County Sheriff’s Coroner Office extends its condolences to Mr. Ringer’s family and loved ones. At this time, there is no additional information available regarding the circumstances surrounding his death.