Missing Person Investigation Results in the Arrest of a Phelan Woman for Murder 

September 8, 2025 – San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department officials report that on Thursday, September 4, 2025, the San Bernardino County Sheriff Department’s Specialized Investigations Division, Homicide Detail, was notified of a missing persons investigation. On Tuesday, September 2, 2025, Mindy Kum was reported missing by her family. Mindy was last seen by her family in the city of Tustin.

Through investigation, Mindy’s last known whereabouts were determined to be in the Phelan area. Detectives were led to a residence on Smoke Tree Road, in Phelan. Margaret Minier lived at and rented the residence from Mindy. Investigators conducted a search of the property during which time human remains were found. As a result of the investigation, Minier was placed under arrest for the murder of Mindy.

Anyone with information regarding this case is urged to contact the Homicide Detail at 909-890-4904. Callers wishing to remain anonymous should contact We-Tip at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or go to www.wetip.com.   

DATE: September 4, 2025
INCIDENT: PC 187 – Murder
LOCATION: 6400 Block of Smoke Tree Road, Phelan
SUSPECT(S): Margaret Minier, 57-year-old Resident of Phelan
VICTIM(S): Mindy Kum, 72-year-old Resident of Phelan 
Refer: Detective S. Lenihan
Station: Homicide Detail
Phone No. 909-890-4904
Case No. DR# 072502902  H# 2025-079

Source: San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department