Missing Thermal man found dead, tribe announces

Update 7/30/26

Raymond Torres Jr. was found dead, the Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians confirmed on Thursday.

We have reached out to the Riverside County Sheriff's Office for additional information on the investigation.

The tribal offices will be closed on Monday out of respect for his family.

Below is a message from Tribal Chairman Joseph D.L. Mirelez

To Our Tribal Members, Community, and Valued Partners,

It is with profound sadness that we share the heartbreaking news that our previously missing tribal member, Raymond Torres Jr. has passed away.

On behalf of the Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians Tribal Council, we extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and all those affected by this tremendous loss. Raymond “MoonD” Torres Jr was a member of our Tribal community, and his passing is deeply felt by all who knew him. During this difficult time, we ask that everyone keep the Torres family in your thoughts and prayers and respect their privacy as they grieve.

In honor of Raymond Torres Jr. and out of respect for his family, all of the Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians Tribal Offices will be closed on Monday, August 3rd, 2026, and normal business operations will resume on Tuesday August 4th, 2026.

As a Tribal community, we stand together in mourning and in support of one another. We are grateful to the many law enforcement agencies, search and rescue personnel, volunteers, neighboring Tribes, and community members who assisted in the search efforts and who showed unwavering compassion and support throughout this difficult time.

With heartfelt sympathy,

Joseph D.L. Mirelez
Chairman
Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians

Original Report 7/15/26

THERMAL, Calif. (KESQ) - The California Highway Patrol issued a Feather Alert for a 45-year-old man last seen in Thermal on July 1.

Raymond Torres of the Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians tribe was last seen near the area of Martinez Road and Polk Street. He is believed to be on foot.

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He is described as five feet and 11 inches tall, weighing approximately 165 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes.

Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians announced there will be a search party searching for Raymond Torres Friday.

The group will meet at the Tribal Hall tomorrow, July 17, 2026, at 7AM to search for Torres.

The group says all are welcome to volunteer, with water provided, and ask everyone to dress appropriately for the heat.

If seen, you are asked to call 9-1-1.