Neighbor Detained in US Couple’s Disappearance, Bodies Still Missing

A man was arrested in California on Thursday, suspected of killing an elderly couple who went missing from their home nearly a week ago. Authorities obtained a search warrant and entered the suspect’s residence, where he surrendered voluntarily after denying the accusations. The bodies of the victims, aged 73 and 79, have not yet been found, but investigators suspect they might be located in the area of the detained neighbor. The couple, identified as Daniel and Stephanie Menard, were last seen on Saturday. Their disappearance was reported by a friend on Sunday. Another friend noticed that Stephanie’s suitcase and cane were still at home, and both the television and computer were left on, leading her to believe something was amiss. The couple’s dog was also missing. The suspect, Michael Royce Sparks, 62, was identified based on a tip received by authorities suggesting his involvement. When Sparks refused to cooperate and exit his residence, authorities forced entry using specialized tools for officer safety.