Ria Gabriella Williams, a 27-year-old resident of Santa Ana, California, was found deceased on February 3, 2020, near the Cougar Crest Trailhead in Fawnskin, CA. Her death, along with that of her boyfriend, 29-year-old Paul Arthur Stockwell Jr., was initially shrouded in mystery. The couple had been reported missing days earlier, with Williams last seen on January 29, 2020.
Their bodies were discovered by deputies from the Big Bear Station after locating a vehicle registered to Williams in the parking area near the trail.
Autopsy results revealed that Williams died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, and her death was ruled a suicide. Stockwell also died from a gunshot wound, but the manner of his death was undetermined. However, evidence at the scene suggested that Stockwell might have also committed suicide. A gun recovered at the scene was registered to Stockwell, further supporting this theory. The investigation did not uncover any signs of foul play or third-party involvement, and there were no arrests or suspects related to their deaths.
The case was thoroughly investigated by the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department, who conducted autopsies and gathered evidence from the scene. Despite the tragic nature of the incident, the investigation concluded that both individuals had taken their own lives. The community of Big Bear was deeply affected by the news, and the authorities appreciated the public's patience and understanding during the investigation.
No litigation, murder charges, or law cases arose from the deaths of Ria Gabriella Williams and Paul Arthur Stockwell Jr. The investigation was closed after determining the causes and manners of their deaths, with no further legal actions pursued. The case remains a somber reminder of the complexities and tragedies that can occur in personal relationships and mental health struggles.
