John Root Fitzpatrick, a 52-year-old man from Morongo Valley, California, was last seen on July 22, 2023. He was reported missing by a friend on July 30, after failing to return from a trip with Fang Jin, a woman he had met online. Fitzpatrick, a former Navy SEAL, had been corresponding with Jin for several months before she flew from China to California. The pair embarked on a tour of the Morongo Basin area, including Joshua Tree National Park, but they mysteriously disappeared after July 22.
Fitzpatrick was last seen driving a blue Toyota Tacoma, which was later found abandoned with flat tires in Harper Canyon, part of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. On September 17, 2023, skeletal remains believed to be Fitzpatrick's were found near the truck. Authorities later confirmed the identity of the remains, though details about his death remain unclear. Further remains, identified as those of Fang Jin, were discovered in the same area in October 2023. The circumstances surrounding their deaths continue to be investigated.
Fitzpatrick's disappearance and death have raised numerous questions, and authorities have not yet released further details regarding the cause of death for either individual. The San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department continues to investigate the case.
Last Seen: Jul 22, 2023
