URGENT UPDATE: A 57-year-old woman from Phelan, California, has been arrested for the murder of 72-year-old Mindy Kum after human remains were uncovered at a property she was renting. This shocking development follows a missing person investigation that began on September 2, 2025, when Kum was reported missing by her family.
Authorities from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department confirmed that Kum was last seen in Tustin. Detectives from the department’s Specialized Investigations Division quickly traced her last known location to a residence on the 6400 block of Smoke Tree Road, which was being rented by Margaret Minier.
During a thorough search of the property, investigators made the grim discovery of human remains. Following this finding, Minier was taken into custody and charged with Kum’s murder. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information related to the case to come forward.
Minier, who has also been identified on social media under the alias Juliette Owle, is now facing serious legal repercussions as detectives delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding Kum’s disappearance and death.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department is appealing to the public for assistance. They can be reached at 909-890-4904 for any tips. Anonymous tips can also be submitted via We-Tip at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or online at wetip.com.
This incident has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the urgent need for vigilance and awareness in local safety. Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
