Man arrested on suspicion of murder after remains of missing woman found in Anza

Update - 10/30/26

Authorities arrested a 40-year-old from Hemet on suspicion of murder, the Riverside County Sheriff's Office announced on Friday.

The suspect was arrested on Wednesday in Hemet. Investigators served a search warrant at his residence, where they reportedly seized multiple items related to the investigation.

The suspect is scheduled to be arraigned on Tuesday. He remains in custody at the Cois Byrd Detention Center

Authorities also announced the identity of the woman, Jessica Rodriguez, 43, of Hemet.

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office thanks the public for their assistance in this investigation and for helping bring justice to this victim. Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Central Homicide Unit Investigator Daniel DiMaggio at (951) 955-2777.

Original Report - 10/27/26

ANZA, Calif. (KESQ) - A suspicious death investigation is underway after the remains of a missing woman were found in the unincorporated area of Riverside County known as Anza last week, authorities said.

The remains were located on Friday, just before 3:00 p.m., in the area of Bautista Canyon Road and Willis Road.

"Upon arrival, deputies located the remains of an adult female in a red shirt and purple pants," reads a news release by the Riverside County Sheriff's Office. "Investigators believe she may have gone missing during the month of October in the Hemet or Anza area."

The Riverside County Sheriff's Central Homicide Unit is seeking the public's assistance in identifying the woman.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Central Homicide Unit Investigator Dan DiMaggio at (951) 955-2777.