Homicide Investigation (Update)
May 22, 2026 – Riverside County Sheriff’s Office officials report that at this time, the Riverside Sheriff’s homicide 
investigators continue to investigate and exhaust all leads in this homicide. The evidence available suggests this was a murder-suicide. Homicide investigators are still actively investigating the incident and will complete a thorough investigation before releasing a final disposition.
During the investigation, it was discovered that 79-year-old Karen Whitaker had fallen victim to financial elder abuse. Currently, there is no evidence to indicate that the unknown suspect (s) who were involved in the financial abuse are directly involved in the couple’s death.
This is an active and ongoing investigation. Based on the evidence, homicide investigators do not believe there is a threat to the community as a result of this incident.
The Riverside Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone with information related to this investigation to contact Central Homicide Investigator Hood at (951) 955-2777 or Thermal Station Investigator Gutierrez at (760) 863-8990.
Reporting Supervisor: Sergeant Mike Kelleher
File # C261350014
Source: Riverside County Sheriff’s Office
