Authorities Identify Deceased Man Found Near Mojave Riverwalk Trail in Victorville
VICTORVILLE, CA — June 20, 2025 — A somber discovery near the Mojave Riverwalk Trail in Old Town Victorville has added another tragic chapter to a recent string of unexplained deaths in the Victor Valley region. On the morning of June 19, 2025, deputies from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department responded to a call for medical aid at Eva Dell Park, where they discovered a man deceased along a nearby dirt path.
According to department spokeswoman Gloria Orejel, the call came in at 9:39 a.m., prompting immediate response from local authorities. When deputies arrived, they located the man lying unresponsive along the dirt trail adjacent to the park. He was described as wearing dark blue denim jeans, a black sweater with white graphics, and what appeared to be a white towel draped around his neck—a sight that struck a solemn image in the morning heat.
The man was later identified as 38-year-old Michae Colquitt. As of this report, his city of residence remains unknown, and his presence near the trail is still being examined as part of the ongoing investigation.
Cause of Death Still Pending
The San Bernardino County Coroner’s Office arrived at the scene shortly after the discovery and officially removed Colquitt’s body by 12:45 p.m. on Thursday. Authorities have confirmed that the cause of death is pending autopsy results, and while there are no immediate indications of trauma or suspicious activity, foul play is not suspected at this time.
No personal belongings or identifying documents have been reported at the scene beyond what Colquitt was wearing. Law enforcement officials have not yet released further details on how long he may have been deceased prior to the discovery or whether environmental factors may have contributed to his passing.
A Pattern of Recent Tragedies in Victor Valley
Colquitt’s death comes amid a troubling trend in the Victor Valley, where several unattended deaths have been reported in recent weeks—none of which, so far, have been tied to criminal activity but have raised public concern and calls for deeper awareness of local health and safety issues.
-
On June 3, Omar Nunez was found dead in an open field near Seneca Road and Amargosa Road.
-
On June 15, two separate deaths were reported: a man found deceased inside an SUV parked behind a Hesperia IHOP, and a woman discovered in a remote desert area near a construction site on Amethyst Road.
-
Just a day later, on June 16, another woman was located deceased near a homeless encampment close to Bear Valley Road and Third Avenue.
In all these cases, investigators have yet to release the causes of death, but authorities have noted no overt signs of foul play.
Extreme Heat Under Scrutiny
In the days leading up to these incidents, the Victor Valley region was under a heat advisory, with daytime temperatures soaring well above average for early summer. While it remains unclear whether heat-related illness or dehydration played a role in any of the recent fatalities—including that of Michae Colquitt—officials have acknowledged the severe weather conditions and their potential impact, particularly on individuals without consistent access to shelter, water, or medical care.
Local health officials are urging residents to take precautions during the ongoing heatwave, including staying hydrated, avoiding outdoor activities during peak sun hours, and checking on vulnerable individuals—especially the elderly, unhoused, and those with chronic health conditions.
Remembering Michae Colquitt
While few personal details about Michae Colquitt have been released, the community is already expressing grief and concern over his sudden passing. Tributes have begun to appear online, and local outreach groups are urging anyone who may have known him or seen him in the area in recent days to come forward with information that could help authorities better understand his final hours.
Efforts to notify Colquitt’s next of kin are ongoing.
A Community Searching for Answers
The growing number of unexplained, non-violent deaths in Victorville is prompting reflection among residents and calls for a greater understanding of the intersecting issues of public health, homelessness, mental health, and economic hardship in the area. Local officials and community leaders are also highlighting the importance of compassionate outreach and support services, especially for those living on the margins.
“We must continue to care for one another,” said a Victorville community advocate. “Behind every headline is a human being—someone’s son, someone’s friend. We owe it to them to ask the hard questions, to offer help where we can, and to remember their names.”
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are encouraging anyone with information regarding Michae Colquitt’s whereabouts or activities leading up to his death to contact the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department. While the investigation continues, his death stands as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life—and the importance of vigilance, care, and community support.
Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.