Full Notification

DATE/TIME: Monday, February 3, 2020 2:00 a.m.

INCIDENT: Death Investigation - Suicide

LOCATION: Cougar Crest Trailhead/North Shore Drive, Fawnskin

VICTIMS: #1- Paul Arthur Stockwell, Jr., 29 years old, resident of Big Bear
#2- Ria Gabriella Williams, 27 years old, resident of Santa Ana

UPDATE: March 25, 2020
Detectives have received autopsy and test results related to the deaths of Ria Gabriella Williams and Paul Stockwell. The Coroner has concluded the cause of death for Williams was a gunshot wound and the manner of her death was ruled a suicide. The cause of death for Stockwell was also a gunshot wound. The manner of Stockwell’s death was undetermined, although Detectives discovered evidence which was consistent with Stockwell also committing suicide. During the initial investigation, Detectives recovered a gun at the scene which was registered to Stockwell.

Detectives appreciate the patience and understanding of the Big Bear community during this lengthy investigation.

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SUMMARY:
On Monday, February 3, 2020 at 2:18 a.m. deputies from the Big Bear Station located a vehicle in the parking area near the Cougar Crest Trail that belonged to a missing person, Ria Williams. Deputies learned that Williams was last seen in Big Bear on Wednesday, January 29th with her boyfriend, Paul Stockwell. On Friday, January 31st Williams did not report to work, and a co-worker reported her missing. Stockwell had also been reported missing by his father. Neither of the missing person reports indicated any suspicious circumstances or reason to suspect foul play.

Deputies requested assistance from Deputy Ryan Girard and K9 Dare to search the Cougar Crest Trail and surrounding area. At about 1:30 p.m. a man and woman were found deceased approximately one-half mile into the forest. Due to the circumstances, Specialized Detectives from the Homicide Detail were requested to conduct the investigation.

Homicide Detectives are conducting a death investigation. An autopsy will be conducted to determine the cause of death for each victim.

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information, or anyone who witnessed the incident, is asked to contact Detective Nick Craig, Specialized Investigations Division – Homicide Detail at (909)387-3589. Callers can remain anonymous and contact WeTip at 800-78CRIME or www.wetip.com.

Refer: Detective Nick Craig or Sergeant Joseph Steers

Station: Specialized Investigations Division – Homicide Detail

Phone No. (909)387-3589

Case No. DR#062000107/162000111 H#2020-010


JOHN McMAHON, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department