INLAND EMPIRE MEDIA ARCHIVE

Sheriff's deputies discovered the body of a third victim in what investigators now describe as a series of ritualistic murders plaguing the San Bernardino National Forest area.

The latest victim was found near Forest Service Road 2N47, displaying the same disturbing pattern of evidence as two previous cases dating back to August 1993. Sources close to the investigation report that occult symbols and ritual candles were found at the scene.

"We are dealing with an individual who has extensive knowledge of occult practices," said Detective Joseph Kirby of the Major Crimes Unit. "The consistency of the ritual elements suggests a single perpetrator with a specific methodology."

Local residents have reported unusual activity in the forest areas, including unauthorized vehicle access to restricted roads and the discovery of makeshift altar sites.

A fourth victim has been discovered in what San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department officials now confirm is a series of ritual murders spanning more than two years.

Sheriff Robert Martinez issued a county-wide safety alert yesterday, warning residents to avoid remote forest areas and report any suspicious activity immediately.

"This individual has demonstrated a pattern of escalation," Martinez said at a press conference. "We believe he may be preparing for additional crimes coinciding with winter solstice dates."

The investigation has expanded to include federal resources, with FBI behavioral analysts creating a psychological profile of the suspect. Sources indicate the perpetrator may have formal education in anthropology or religious studies.

Anonymous letters received by the department suggest the perpetrator views the murders as part of a larger spiritual mission requiring seven total victims to complete a ritual cycle.

A Highland family of three has been reported missing under suspicious circumstances, prompting a major crimes investigation by the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department.

The ██████ family was reported missing by neighbors after mail accumulated for several days at their Forest View Drive residence. Initial investigation revealed evidence of possible criminal activity.

Detective Sarah Taylor, spokesperson for the investigation, declined to provide specific details but confirmed that federal resources have been requested to assist with the case.

"We are treating this as a priority investigation," Taylor said. "The circumstances warrant a comprehensive forensic response."

Neighbors report unusual activity at the residence in recent weeks, including vehicles arriving late at night and the sound of construction or renovation work.

Sources within the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department confirm that the Highland family disappearances are linked to the unsolved ritual murders from the mid-1990s.

Detective Joseph Kirby, who investigated the original series of murders, has been recalled from retirement to consult on the case. The connection was established through forensic evidence found at the Forest View Drive residence.

"We always believed this individual would resurface," said a law enforcement source who requested anonymity. "The fifteen-year gap matches psychological profiles developed by federal behavioral analysts."

The investigation has revealed evidence of long-term surveillance and preparation targeting the Highland family. Community members report feeling watched for months prior to the disappearances.

A joint FBI-Sheriff's Department task force has been established to coordinate the investigation.