Detectives Investigate Homicide in Landers; Santa Monica Man Arrested 

January 3, 2024 - San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department officials report that on Monday, January 1, 2024, deputies from the Morongo Station, along with San Bernardino County Fire, responded to a medical aid request in the 55800 block of Montara Road. When deputies arrived, they located Jeffrey Cull, who lived at the location, and William Durst, the owner of the property. Cull was unresponsive and pronounced deceased.

Detectives with the Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division, Homicide Detail, responded and assumed the investigation. Through the investigation, detectives learned Durst arrived at the location and attempted to force Cull to leave. Cull refused to leave, and an argument ensued. Durst sprayed Cull with bear spray and placed him in a chokehold. Cull lost consciousness and succumbed to his injury.

William Durst was arrested and booked for murder at the Morongo Basin jail.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Detective Shawn Thurman, Specialized Investigations Division at (909) 890-4904. Callers can remain anonymous and contact We-Tip at 800-78CRIME or www.wetip.com.

DATE/TIME: January 1, 2024, 11:00 a.m.

INCIDENT: Homicide Investigation

LOCATION: 55800 block of Montara Road, Landers

SUSPECT(S): William Durst, 54-year-old Resident of Santa Monica

VICTIM(S): Jeffrey Cull, 71-year-old Resident of Landers

Case No. DR# 092400001 / H#2024-001

Source: San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department