New details released about missing couple found 2 weeks later in remote campground
It appears an Anaheim couple who went missing on Mother’s Day became lost in the remote Warner Springs area of northeastern San Diego County and remained there for two weeks before an off-road enthusiast found the man dead and the woman in serious condition inside their car, a sheriff’s lieutenant said Sunday.
Sixty-eight-year-old Dianna Bedwell was transported to a hospital for treatment after she and her deceased husband were discovered on the Los Coyotes Indian Reservation at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, said San Diego County sheriff’s Lt. Kenneth Nelson. She was severely dehydrated, said a private investigator for the family.
“The couple reportedly ate oranges and pie and drank rainwater, but the husband died before they were found,” says Nelson. “An autopsy will be conducted on 79-year-old Cecil Knutson that could determine when he died.”
Bedwell and her husband Cecil “Paul” Knutson, 79, were last seen leaving the Valley View Casino in Valley Center in their 2014 white Hyundai Sonata at 2 p.m. May 10, authorities said. Relatives told the sheriff’s department they planned to go on to their son’s home in La Quinta but never arrived.
“Sheriff’s homicide investigators responded to the hospital and were able to obtain a brief statement from Bedwell,” Nelson said. “The preliminary investigation indicates the couple became lost soon after leaving the casino while attempting to find a shortcut to their ultimate destination. They remained with their vehicle until ultimately found.”
The San Diego County Medical Examiner has not confirmed the man’s identity or cause of death but relatives posted a picture of the couple on the Missing Paul and Dianna Facebook page with a message that read “It is them. Rest in peace dad.
Statement from Los Coyotes Band of Cahuilla Indians:
On behalf of the Los Coyotes Band of Cahuilla and Cupeno Indians, I would like to express our sincere condolences to the family of Cecil Knutsen. I would also like to send our heartfelt wishes for a speedy and full recovery of Dianne Bedwel.
We are a relatively small Tribe and members of the Tribe consider themselves family with all members. When we lose one of our own, it is felt by all.
As such, we sympathize with the family of Cecil and Diane.
Our Police Department stands by to assist the family in visiting the site as needed and the recover y of personal effects when they are able.
Again, well wishes for Diane’s recovery.
Respectfully
Shane Chapparosa
Chairman
