A fatal shooting outside the AV Nightclub in Big Bear Lake is being investigated by the Homicide Detail of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department. The shooting claimed the life of 42-year-old local artist James Clark and led to the arrest of Frank Joseph “Black Fox” Popovich, Jr.. (Photo by Jim Tunnell for ROTWNEWS.com)

By G. T. Houts

UPDATE 6: Wednesday, April 13 – 4 a.m.

Big Bear Lake, CA – The man accused of the fatal shooting of 42-year-old James Clark outside a Big Bear Lake nightclub Tuesday morning — Frank Joseph “Black Fox” Popovich, Jr. — is scheduled to be arraigned on a murder charge on Thursday, April 14.

The arraignment is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. in San Bernardino County Superior Court, Department S-9.

Popovich — who operated the Black Fox Trading Company on Pine Knot Avenue — was arrested at 2 p.m. Tuesday, according to booking documents and is being held without bail at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga.

UPDATE 5: Tuesday, April 12 – 8:07 p.m.

Big Bear Lake, CA – An arrest has been made for the murder of 42-year-old James Clark outside the AV Nightclub in Big Bear Lake.

Frank Popovich (Facebook Photo)

Investigators revealed Frank Popovich, 53, resident of Big Bear Lake, is in custody charged with shooting Clark to death in the rear parking lot of the Pine Knot Avenue establishment. He was arrested without incident.

Officials have determined Clark and Popovich were acquaintances and were involved in a fight outside the nightclub during which time Clark was shot by Popovich, according to a press release issued by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

Popovich has been booked at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga.

UPDATE 4: Tuesday, April 12 – 6:37 p.m.

Big Bear Lake, CA – The 42-year-old man shot and killed outside a Big Bear Lake nightclub has been identified by friends as local artist James Clark.

James Clark shown inside the AV Nightclub, (Facebook Photo)

Clark — who was pronounced deceased after being transported to Bear Valley Community Hospital by Big Bear Fire personnel — was shot at least once in the back parking lot of the AV Nightclub in the 600 block of Pine Knot Avenue.

The incident was reported shortly after 1 a.m. Tuesday, April 12, according to a press release issued by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

An autopsy will be conducted to determine the exact cause of Clark’s death.

SUSPECT UNIDENTIFIED

Authorities have thus far declined to disclose information about the suspect in the case.

ROTWNEWS.com will continue to monitor the case and release information as it becomes available.

UPDATE 3: Tuesday, April 12 – 3:10 p.m.

Big Bear Lake, CA – The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department has released the following press release related to the shooting death of an unidentified 43-year-old white male:

On Tuesday, April 12, 2016 at 1:13 a.m. a Big Bear Lake Sheriff’s Deputy was driving behind the AV Nightclub on routine patrol when the bartender flagged him down to report a person had been shot in the rear parking lot of the bar. Medical personal from the Big Bear Lake Fire Department arrived and transported the victim to Bear Valley Community Hospital where he died. The victim was taken to the San Bernardino County morgue, where an autopsy will be done to determine the cause of death.

The Sheriff’s Department Homicide Detail and detectives from the Big Bear Station are working together to determine what occurred. The name of the victim is being withheld at this time until his family has been notified.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Homicide Detail, Detective Jon Cahow at (909)387-3589 or the Big Bear Station at (909)866-0100.

Updates will be provided as new information becomes available.

UPDATE 2: Tuesday, April 12 – 1:05 p.m.

Big Bear Lake, CA – The investigation of the fatal shooting in the parking lot behind the AV Nightclub on Pine Knot Avenue is ongoing.

Four yellow evidence markers have been placed in the nightclub’s back parking lot and there appears to be a black shoe and a baseball cap near the markers. (Photo by Jim Tunnell for ROTWNEWS.com)

For a time, 40-King was circling the area above the nightclub and homicide detectives questioned witnesses and crime scene investigators checked out evidence and placed yellow evidence markers at several locations..

KNBC Channel 4 has indicated that the victim is a 43-year-old male.

However, that fact has not been verified by the Sheriff’s Department.

ROTWNEWS.com is awaiting a press release from the Sheriff’s Department.

As soon as it is available that information will be added to this story along with additional information provided to the media by authorities at the crime scene.

Employees and patrons were questioned by authorities for several hours after the incident was reported. (Photo by Jim Tunnell for ROTWNEWS.com)

UPDATE: Tuesday, April 12 – 9:31 a.m.

Big Bear Lake, CA – Additional details about the fatal shooting outside a Big Bear nightclub in the 600 block of Pine Knot Avenue indicate a Sheriff’s unit was flagged down to report the shooting about the time the 9-1-1 call was received by dispatch.

The first unit on scene at the AV Nightclub informed Big Bear Fire that the scene was secure and therefore they were not required to stage. The deputy stated, “come on in.”

The victim was transported to Bear Valley Community Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Scanner reports show the second deputy on scene ran “wants and warrants” on an individual and his vehicle but noted that the information was “unconfirmed.”

ORIGINAL STORY

Big Bear Lake, CA – Homicide detectives are investigating a shooting outside a night club in the 600 block of Pine Knot Avenue in Big Bear Lake early Tuesday morning. The unidentified male victim was transported to an area hospital following the 1:15 a.m. incident and later died.

THE INCIDENT

The investigation is ongoing, however when deputies and emergency personnel responded to the back parking lot of the nightclub they found the man suffering from a gunshot wound, according to the Big Bear Sheriff’s Department.

Paramedics staged outside the area until the scene was secured by deputies and transported the victim to the hospital.

THE INVESTIGATION

The initial report from the scene is that the incident outside the nightclub took place after an apparent argument that began inside the AV Nightclub.

Patrons and employees were detained inside the club for an extended period as homicide detectives worked to determine what triggered the fatal incident.

Additional information will be released as it becomes available.

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By G. T. Houts

Lake Arrowhead, CA – A series of car break-ins in the Lake Arrowhead area led to the arrest of two men — Scott Douglas McDuffie, 32, from Blue Jay and Dylan Ross Fuzzell from Fullerton.

THE INCIDENTS

The Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station reports that the night of April 11, an unidentified man heard a noise outside his home and went outside to try and determine where the nopise was coming from.

The man told deputies he observed two suspects attempting to steal tires off of his vehicle. The victim recognized one of the suspects to be McDuffie and told them both to leave the property.
The victim was able to clearly describe both suspects and the vehicle they were in to deputies.

On the same evening, according to a Twin Peaks news release, the second victim heard a noise outside her home and went to investigate, she observed that her vehicle had been entered without her permission and items were missing but didn’t see who had done it.

SUSPECT VEHICLE SPOTTED

In the early morning hours, a deputy on patrol spotted the suspect vehicle.

The media advisory indicated that the deputy approached the driver of the vehicle, later identified as Fuzzell and found he had wrapped his fingers with electrical tape.

The deputy found paperwork and items not belonging to Fuzzell in the vehicle.

The second victim came to the scene and was able to positively identify her belongings which were stolen earlier that night. A deputy escorted the victim back to her residence.

ANOTHER INCIDENT

While returning to the suspect vehicle the deputy spotted the second suspect, later identified as McDuffie, burglarizing another vehicle.

McDuffie’s fingers were also wrapped in electrical tape and he was found to be in possession of additional items that did not belong to him.

THE ARRESTS

Fuzzell was charged with PC496, Receiving Stolen Property and PC 530.5(c).(1), Identity Theft. He was booked at the West Valley Detention Center (WVDC) in Rancho Cucamonga and posted bail and was released at 10:49 p.m. on April 14.

McDuffie was charged with PC496, Receiving Stolen Property, and remains in custody at WVDC. His first court appearance is scheduled for April 21 at 8:30 a.m. in Department S-17. His bail is $100,000.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

McDuffie and Fuzzell appeared to be targeting unlocked vehicles. The Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station reminds mountain residents to remove valuables and lock vehicles.

“Always report vehicle break-ins in a timely manner so that we can identify you as a possible victim should an arrest be made,” the press release stated.

Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Twin Peaks Station at (909) 336-0500 or We-TIP at (800) 472-7766.

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A high speed pursuit in the Crestline/Cedarpines Park area Saturday evening ended with the arrest of a possible suspect in an assault with a deadly weapon case. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Crestline, CA – A high speed chase through the streets of Crestline Saturday evening led to the arrest of a suspect in an assault with a deadly weapon case. The name of the man was not immediately available.

THE INCIDENT

The incident began about 9:50 p.m. in the Lake Gregory area and came to a conclusion after Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputies and California Highway Patrol officers made the arrest near Elliott Road and Crest Forest Drive in Cedarpines Park about 10:05 p.m., according to scanner reports.

MINIMAL INFORMATION

ROTWNEWS.com was monitoring the call on scanners and following comments from community members in RimTraffic but little information was being broadcast on open channels.

Residents in the area where the pursuit ended posted that they had secured their residences as they watched the chase and eventual arrest unfold.

One eyewitness told ROTWNEWS.com, “it was friggin’ nuts.” Another resident posted, “I swear there is a high speed chase going on right now past my house! Sirens, racing cars, screeching tires (Lake Gregory).”

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

Additional details will be released as soon as they are available.

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By G. T. Houts

UPDATE 7: Monday, April 18 – 8:42 a.m.

San Bernardino, CA – Bail has been set at $1 million for Frank Joseph “Black Fox” Popovich, Jr., 53, who is accused of fatally shooting 42-year-old James Clark outside a Big Bear nightclub on April 12.

This past week, Popovich was arraigned and entered a not guilty plea to the murder charge in San Bernardino County Superior Court. His next court appearance is a pre-preliminary hearing on Friday, April 22, at 8:30 a.m. in Department S-17.

Popovich remains in custody at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga.

UPDATE 6: Wednesday, April 13 – 4 a.m.

Big Bear Lake, CA – The man accused of the fatal shooting of 42-year-old James Clark outside a Big Bear Lake nightclub Tuesday morning — Frank Joseph “Black Fox” Popovich, Jr. — is scheduled to be arraigned on a murder charge on Thursday, April 14.

The arraignment is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. in San Bernardino County Superior Court, Department S-9.

Popovich — who operated the Black Fox Trading Company on Pine Knot Avenue — was arrested at 2 p.m. Tuesday, according to booking documents and is being held without bail at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga.

UPDATE 5: Tuesday, April 12 – 8:07 p.m.

Big Bear Lake, CA – An arrest has been made for the murder of 42-year-old James Clark outside the AV Nightclub in Big Bear Lake.

Frank Popovich (Facebook Photo)

Investigators revealed Frank Popovich, 53, resident of Big Bear Lake, is in custody charged with shooting Clark to death in the rear parking lot of the Pine Knot Avenue establishment. He was arrested without incident.

Officials have determined Clark and Popovich were acquaintances and were involved in a fight outside the nightclub during which time Clark was shot by Popovich, according to a press release issued by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

Popovich has been booked at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga.

UPDATE 4: Tuesday, April 12 – 6:37 p.m.

Big Bear Lake, CA – The 42-year-old man shot and killed outside a Big Bear Lake nightclub has been identified by friends as local artist James Clark.

James Clark shown inside the AV Nightclub, (Facebook Photo)

Clark — who was pronounced deceased after being transported to Bear Valley Community Hospital by Big Bear Fire personnel — was shot at least once in the back parking lot of the AV Nightclub in the 600 block of Pine Knot Avenue.

The incident was reported shortly after 1 a.m. Tuesday, April 12, according to a press release issued by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

An autopsy will be conducted to determine the exact cause of Clark’s death.

SUSPECT UNIDENTIFIED

Authorities have thus far declined to disclose information about the suspect in the case.

ROTWNEWS.com will continue to monitor the case and release information as it becomes available.

UPDATE 3: Tuesday, April 12 – 3:10 p.m.

Big Bear Lake, CA – The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department has released the following press release related to the shooting death of an unidentified 43-year-old white male:

On Tuesday, April 12, 2016 at 1:13 a.m. a Big Bear Lake Sheriff’s Deputy was driving behind the AV Nightclub on routine patrol when the bartender flagged him down to report a person had been shot in the rear parking lot of the bar. Medical personal from the Big Bear Lake Fire Department arrived and transported the victim to Bear Valley Community Hospital where he died. The victim was taken to the San Bernardino County morgue, where an autopsy will be done to determine the cause of death.

The Sheriff’s Department Homicide Detail and detectives from the Big Bear Station are working together to determine what occurred. The name of the victim is being withheld at this time until his family has been notified.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Homicide Detail, Detective Jon Cahow at (909)387-3589 or the Big Bear Station at (909)866-0100.

Updates will be provided as new information becomes available.

UPDATE 2: Tuesday, April 12 – 1:05 p.m.

Big Bear Lake, CA – The investigation of the fatal shooting in the parking lot behind the AV Nightclub on Pine Knot Avenue is ongoing.

Four yellow evidence markers have been placed in the nightclub’s back parking lot and there appears to be a black shoe and a baseball cap near the markers. (Photo by Jim Tunnell for ROTWNEWS.com)

For a time, 40-King was circling the area above the nightclub and homicide detectives questioned witnesses and crime scene investigators checked out evidence and placed yellow evidence markers at several locations..

KNBC Channel 4 has indicated that the victim is a 43-year-old male.

However, that fact has not been verified by the Sheriff’s Department.

ROTWNEWS.com is awaiting a press release from the Sheriff’s Department.

As soon as it is available that information will be added to this story along with additional information provided to the media by authorities at the crime scene.

Employees and patrons were questioned by authorities for several hours after the incident was reported. (Photo by Jim Tunnell for ROTWNEWS.com)

UPDATE: Tuesday, April 12 – 9:31 a.m.

Big Bear Lake, CA – Additional details about the fatal shooting outside a Big Bear nightclub in the 600 block of Pine Knot Avenue indicate a Sheriff’s unit was flagged down to report the shooting about the time the 9-1-1 call was received by dispatch.

The first unit on scene at the AV Nightclub informed Big Bear Fire that the scene was secure and therefore they were not required to stage. The deputy stated, “come on in.”

The victim was transported to Bear Valley Community Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Scanner reports show the second deputy on scene ran “wants and warrants” on an individual and his vehicle but noted that the information was “unconfirmed.”

ORIGINAL STORY

Big Bear Lake, CA – Homicide detectives are investigating a shooting outside a night club in the 600 block of Pine Knot Avenue in Big Bear Lake early Tuesday morning. The unidentified male victim was transported to an area hospital following the 1:15 a.m. incident and later died.

THE INCIDENT

The investigation is ongoing, however when deputies and emergency personnel responded to the back parking lot of the nightclub they found the man suffering from a gunshot wound, according to the Big Bear Sheriff’s Department.

Paramedics staged outside the area until the scene was secured by deputies and transported the victim to the hospital.

THE INVESTIGATION

The initial report from the scene is that the incident outside the nightclub took place after an apparent argument that began inside the AV Nightclub.

Patrons and employees were detained inside the club for an extended period as homicide detectives worked to determine what triggered the fatal incident.

Additional information will be released as it becomes available.

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Michael Ernest Taylor, 34, is in custody at the West Valley Detention Center following his arrest on felony charges of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, possession of a short-barreled shotgun, and carrying a loaded firearm in public with a felony conviction. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Big Bear Lake, CA – Deputies from the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station Multi Enforcement Team conducted a vehicle check in the CVS Pharmacy parking lot in the 42000 Block of Big Bear Boulevard in Big Bear Lake Tuesday at about 5 p.m.

Deputies made contact with Michael Ernest Taylor, 34, who was identified as being on Post Community Supervised Release Probation (AB 109) and having a active felony arrest warrant for possession of a stolen vehicle.

During a search of Taylor’s vehicle, deputies found a loaded sawed off shotgun and drug paraphernalia.

THE ARREST

Taylor, who is not a resident of the Big Bear area, was taken into custody without incident.

The suspect was booked at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga on felony charges of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, possession of a short-barreled shotgun, and carrying a loaded firearm in public with a felony conviction.

Taylor remains in custody in lieu of $50,000 bail. A video arraignment hearing in the case is set for 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 21.

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By G. T. Houts

Crestline, CA – Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputies served a search warrant at a residence in Valley of Enchantment (Crestline) and discovered items related to identity theft, evidence from several recent mountain burglaries, drugs and drug paraphernalia.

SEARCH WARRANT

Deputies and detectives executed the search warrant on Thursday, April 21, in the 300 block of Tetley Drive.

Deputies were led to the Valley of Enchantment residence after observing 45-year-old Karl Richard Eimers on surveillance video using credit cards belonging to victims of recent burglaries, according to a media release from the Sheriff’s Department.

The video footage was taken from several retail stores in the San Bernardino area, the release explained.

SUSPECTS CONTACTED

Once inside the residence, deputies contacted Eimers, Travis Gregory Ward, 32, from San Diego, and Kathleen Kelly, 33, from San Diego.

During the actual search, deputies recovered numerous items believed to be stolen. The items included several identification cards, paperwork, credit cards, checks and power tools which were reported stolen from recent burglaries.

Also recovered in the residence was a large amount of drug paraphernalia as well as methamphetamine, heroin and items consistent with drug sales.

THE ARRESTS

All three subjects were arrested for PC 496(a), Possession of Stolen Property and PC 530.5 Identity Theft. Eimers was charged with H&S 11366 for keeping a place to sell controlled substances. His bail is $50,000.

Ward’s bail was also $50,000. However, there is also a $145,000 hold from San Diego County.

They were booked into West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga.

Deputies believe Eimers is linked to residential and vehicular burglaries throughout the mountain communities.

CONTACT INFORMATION

If you have further information regarding this case or additional burglaries connected to Eimers, Ward and Kelly, please contact the Twin Peaks Station at (909) 336-0687 or We-Tip 1-800-78-CRIME.

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Big Bear murder suspect Frank Joseph “Black Fox” Popovich, Jr., 53, remains in custody at the West Valley Detention Center on $1 million bail. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

San Bernardino, CA – A preliminary hearing for Frank Joseph “Black Fox” Popovich, Jr., 53, who is accused of fatally shooting 42-year-old James Clark outside a Big Bear nightclub on April 12., has been vacated by Judge Richard V. Peel.

The preliminary hearing was scheduled for Tuesday, April 26, but during last Friday’s pre-preliminary hearing, Judge Peel changed Popovich’s next court appearance to a disposition/reset hearing on Friday, April 29, at 8:30 a.m. in Department S-17.

$1 MILLION BAIL

Popovich — who is being represented by a deputy public defender — remains in custody at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga with bail set at $1 million.

On April 14, Popovich was arraigned on the murder charge and entered a not guilty plea.

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A 59-year-old man — Dennis Griffin Pease — has been found guilty of the 2005 cold case murder of a Fresno man and dumping his body in the Cajon Pass. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Dennis Pease (Booking Photo)

San Bernardino, CA – Dennis Griffin Pease, 59, has been found guilty of murdering a Fresno man and dumping his body in the Cajon Pass in 2005.

The cold case was prosecuted in San Bernardino County Superior Court by Deputy District Attorney Denise Yoakum.

Pease is being held at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga awaiting sentencing on June 10 at 8:30 a.m. in Department S-12.

THE COLD CASE

Willard Eichler (Contributed Photo)

Pease was accused of killing Willard Eichler, 54, and dumping his body on Swarthout Canyon Road in the Cajon Pass, on November 11, 2005.

Swarthout Canyon Road is located east of the I-15 freeway and south of Highway 138.

In 2005, Pease was located driving Eichler’s missing Ford LTD. Pease was arrested for felon in possession of a firearm and sentenced to state prison for one year. At the time of that arrest, authorities didn’t have sufficient evidence to link Pease to the killing.

After his release from prison, Pease was a transient, according to a media release issued by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

In 2011, the Sheriff’s Homicide Cold Case Team took charge of the investigation and completed additional interviews. Evidence from the scene and Eichler’s car was analyzed and linked Pease to the murder.

THE ARREST

A warrant for Pease’s arrest was issued on January 12, 2012, charging him with Eichler’s murder.

On July 18, 2012, Eichler was located by a U. S. Marshal’s Service Fugitive Task Force, he was residing in a transient camp behind a gas station in Orlando, Florida. He was eventually extradited to San Bernardino County where he stood trial for Eichler’s murder.

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Big Bear Lake murder suspect Ronald Michael Hitchcock, charged with the 2012 death of his girlfriend, Deborah Ann Crouch, returns to Superior Court on Wednesday, April 27, 21 for yet another disposition/reset hearing. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

San Bernardino, CA – Murder suspect Ronald Michael Hitchcock, now 60, returns to court once again on Wednesday, April 27. Hitchcock, who is charged with the murder of Erwin Lake resident, Deborah Ann Crouch, 53, will have a disposition/reset hearing at 8:30 a.m. in San Bernardino County Superior Court, Department S-16.

The report of a submerged car at Swim Beach in Big Bear Lake was received about 6 a.m. Saturday, September 15, 2002. (Contributed Photo)

Hitchcock and his attorneys have been granted numerous delays in the legal process that began shortly after Crouch and her dog were found in Big Bear Lake on September 15, 2012.

Hitchcock — a resident of Big Bear — entered a not guilty plea to murder and cruelty to another’s animal on September 18, 2012. He is currently in custody at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga with bail set at $1 million.

THE INCIDENT

Deborah Ann Crouch (Contributed Photo)

Hitchcock is charged with two felony charges after Crouch’s body and that of a dog were retrieved from a submerged car in Big Bear Lake on September 15, 2012.

Big Bear Sheriff’s deputies responded to the Swim Beach area of Meadow Park at about 6 a.m. on that date and made contact with a man (Hitchcock) — who was inside the fencing at Swim Beach and yelling — he explained his vehicle had crashed through the locked front gate and into the lake, according to a Big Bear Sheriff’s Station press release issued at the time.

Sheriff’s Aviation’s 40-King was dispatched about 7 a.m. and, once over the scene, mapped the GPS coordinates of the car’s location.

The car was located about 20 yards out from the beach.

Members of the department’s dive team went into Big Bear Lake and found the vehicle, which contained the female victim (Crouch) and a dog.

They were both pronounced deceased at the scene.

INVESTIGATION AND ARREST

San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department homicide detectives were summoned to the scene and, following their investigation  — which included a search of Crouch’s residence on E Lane in Erwin Lake — arrested Hitchcock on suspicion of murder.

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A 22-year-old Redlands man is in custody after he was reportedly robbing items from the U.S. Post Office in Moonridge. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Big Bear, CA – Deputies from the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station responded to a report of a commercial burglary in progress at the Moonridge Post Office about 8 a.m. on Wednesday, March 30.

Upon arrival at the post office, deputies made contact with a male subject inside the business — identified as Wade Anthony Hall, 22, from Redlands.

THE INCIDENT

A media release from the station indicates that Hall allegedly forced entry into the closed business office and opened several packages and envelopes.

The suspect was found to be in possession of numerous items that were removed from the opened packages, according to the release.

THE ARREST

Hall was arrested and booked into the Big Bear Jail on a felony charge of burglary.

The Moonridge Post Office is located at 42025 Sandalwood Drive in Big bear Lake. (Contributed Photo)

A records check on Hall revealed that he is currently on felony probation, so deputies contacted Hall’s probation officer and Hall was placed on a hold for violation of the terms and conditions of his probation.

Hall remains in custody without the possibility of bail, pending a video arraignment hearing scheduled for Tuesday, April 5, at 12:30 p.m.

The U.S. Attorney General’s office has been contacted and is reviewing this matter for the possibility of filing additional federal charges.

The property that was stolen by Hall was released to the Postmaster of the Moonridge Post Office for return to its rightful owners.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

In addition to being arrested on the burglary charge, Hall was also issued a citation on March 27 on a charge of petty theft for stealing food at a local grocery store.

He is scheduled to appear in court on Monday, June 27, to answer for that misdemeanor charge.

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A cell phone stolen from a Placentia man after he was threatened with a ball-peen hammer led to the arrest of two suspects at a Big Bear City residence. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Big Bear City, CA – Big Bear deputies have arrested two suspects at a residence in Big Bear City on suspicion of robbing a man of his cellphone after allegedly threatening him with a ball-peen hammer at his apartment in Placentia.

Taken into custody Monday afternoon in the 700 block of Kern Avenue were Richard Joseph Tamayo, 28, of Ventura and Samantha Marie Perkins, 18, of Big Bear City.

THE INCIDENT

A media advisory from the Placentia Police Department indicates that Tamayo and Perkins robbed a male adult around 12:30 a.m. on Tuesday, April 12, in his apartment in the 200 block of East Chapman Avenue in Placentia.

Officers reported that as Tamayo threatened to hit the victim with the hammer, Perkins took the victim’s cellphone and fled the area.

The unidentified victim was not injured during the incident and his cellphone was the only loss.

Detectives were able to track down the two suspects, thanks to information about the male suspect provided by the victim, along with additional evidence, and that led Placentia Police and Big Bear Sheriff’s deputies to Perkins’ residence in Big Bear City.

THE ARREST

Tamayo and Perkins were arrested on suspicion of robbery on May 9.

Tamayo was booked into Orange County’s Central Men’s Jail and Perkins the Central Women’s Jail.

Bail for both suspects was set at $250,000.

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Two Lake Arrowhead residents are facing a variety of charges including burglary following their arrest by Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputies. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Lake Arrowhead, CA – The Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station has arrested a Lake Arrowhead “couple” on suspicion of burglarizing the Lake Arrowhead Community Services District (LACSD), Cecil Logging and The Three Guys.

Patrick Sean Mitchell (Booking Photo)

A media advisory identified the suspects as 43-year-old Patrick Sean Mitchell and 47-year-old Elizabeth Florence Graham. The release reported Mitchell and Graham were a couple.

THE CASE

A search warrant was served in the 200 block of Sunset Drive in Lake Arrowhead at about 7:45 p.m. on May 10.

“Deputies received information the two occupants of the residence — Mitchell and Graham — were involved with recent commercial burglaries in the area,” the release explained.

Witnesses and victims provided deputies with a description of Mitchell and a vehicle he was seen in. The witnesses described the suspect vehicle as a white BMW sedan.

Elizabeth Florence Graham (Booking Photo)

Twin Peaks Station staff were familiar with Mitchell, who is on active parole for burglary and auto theft, and associated him with a vehicle similar to the description offered by the witness.

STOLEN PROPERTY

Some of the items taken were chainsaws from logging companies and equipment belonging to LACSD.

On March 2, just before 11 a.m., LACSD employees discovered one of their trailers was stolen from their work yard. The trailer was a 12-foot box trailer with tandem axles and had “Lake Arrowhead Community Services District” emblems on the sides.

LACSD’s trailer contained confined space equipment for servicing underground utilities.

On May 2, shortly after 9 a.m., employees for Cecil Logging discovered someone forced their way into a storage unit off Torrey Road in Lake Arrowhead and stole two Husqvarna chain saws.

During the service of the warrant, one of the chainsaws and some of the confined space equipment was recovered.

A marijuana grow, to which a juvenile had full access, was also discovered inside the residence.

THE ARRESTS

Mitchell was arrested for burglary, felon in possession of ammunition, and possession of stolen property.

Graham was arrested for possession of the stolen property and child endangerment.

Both were booked at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga.

Mitchell — whose bail was set at $100,000 — was arraigned by video on May 12 and entered a not guilty plea to all charges.

Graham was released on May 11 at 12:15 p.m. and at deadline there were no court appearances scheduled.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Mitchell and Graham are believed to be linked to burglaries in the Lake Arrowhead community and surrounding areas, according to the media release.

Individuals who may have further information regarding this case or additional burglaries connected to Mitchell and Graham should contact the Twin Peaks Station at (909) 336-0600 or We Tip 1-800-78-CRIME.

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A 19-year-old man — who accidentally shot himself with a handgun in the right buttocks — has been booked on attempted murder and criminal threats charges after an alleged victim came forward to describe the incident to deputies. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Twin Peaks, CA – A 19-year-old man — who inadvertently discharged a 22-caliber handgun and shot himself in the right buttocks — is in custody suspected of attempted murder and making criminal threats.

Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputies identified the man as Zachariah Tyrell.

THE INITIAL CONTACT

A media advisory indicates that about 11 a.m. on Friday, May 13, Tyrell flagged down a Twin Peaks patrol unit in front of the convenience store in Twin Peaks on Highway 189 (Five Points). He was found to be suffering from a gunshot to his buttocks area.

Tyrell told the deputy that he was shot but declined to disclose how the incident occurred.

The teenager was transported to an area hospital via ground ambulance.

Deputies conducted an area search for a possible suspect.

CONTACT WITH THE VICTIM

About an hour after deputies made contact with Tyrell, the alleged victim in the case arrived at the Twin Peaks Station to report Tyrell attempted to shoot him.

The unidentified male victim told deputies Tyrell came to his house earlier in the day around 7 a.m. and started an argument. The victim told Tyrell to leave the residence in the 26000 block of Lake Forest Drive in Twin Peaks and the suspect complied.

However, Tyrell returned at about 10 a.m., according to the victim, and threatened to shoot him. When Tyrell removed the handgun from his waistband it discharged striking him in the buttocks.

The suspect then reportedly fled the scene.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Tyrell was hospitalized briefly and then booked at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga for attempted murder and making criminal threats.

Persons with information about the case are encouraged to call the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station at (909) 336-0600 or We-Tip 1-800-78-CRIME.

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By G. T. Houts

UPDATE 2: Wednesday, May 18 – 9:50 a.m.

Erwin Lake, CA – The San Bernardino Count Sheriff’s Department has provided additional details about the fatal stabbing of an unidentified adult male in the 2100 block of East State Lane in Erwin Lake.

Deputies responded to the location shortly after 2 p.m. to a report of a stabbing. Officers located the victim who was suffering from apparent stab wounds. The victim was transported to Bear Valley Community Hospital where he was pronounced deceased.

WITNESS ACCOUNTS

Deputies were advised by witnesses that a male suspect had fled the location of the stabbing incident and was believed to be at a residence in the 2100 block of East Third Lane.

Officers responded to that location and observed the suspect “sitting in front of his home smoking a cigarette.”

THE SUSPECT

As reported earlier by ROTWNEWS.com, the suspect was identified as Joseph Andrew Vaughn, 38, and he was immediately detained by deputies.

The Sheriff’s Department’s Specialized Investigation Division, Homicide Detail, responded to conduct the investigation.

Vaughn was determined to be responsible for the death and was arrested without incident, transported and booked at the Big Bear Jail at 1:35 a.m. May 18.

There are no other suspects mentioned in the Sheriff’s Department’s news release.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Persons with additional information about the case should contact Detective Nick Clark or Sergeant David Johnson at (909) 387-3589 or by calling W-Tip at 1-800-78-CRIME.

UPDATE: Wednesday, May 18 – 5:17 a.m.

Erwin Lake, CA –  The daily Sheriff’s Log shows deputies responding to a murder call in the 2100 block of East State Lane in Erwin Lake at 2:05:58 p.m. on Tuesday, May 17.

ORIGINAL STORY – Posted Wednesday, May 18 – 4 a.m.

Erwin Lake, CA – The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide Detail is investigating a murder in an Erwin Lake neighborhood that reportedly left one man dead and injured as many as two others.

ROTWNEWS.com has requested information from the Sheriff’s Department but has not been contacted with additional details.

WHAT IS KNOWN

However, ROTWNEWS.com has learned that one suspect is in custody at the Big Bear Jail and is being held without bail. Booking records identify him as 38-year-old Joseph Andrew Vaughn.

The booking log indicates he was booked on a charge of murder at the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station at 1:35 a.m. Wednesday, May 18.

Social media postings indicate there may be a second suspect in custody but, at deadline, ROTWNEWS.com was unable to secure the booking information.

ORIGINAL CALL

Scanner reports show that the original call was for a medical aid in the 2100 block of East State Lane in Erwin Lake (Big Bear City).

A medical helicopter was requested shortly after 2 p.m. Tuesday. Authorities have not yet released the name and age of the victim who was transported to Bear Valley Community Hospital where he was pronounced deceased.

Again, social media posts have identified the man but the name will not be released until next of kin have been notified.

Additional details will be released as they become available.

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Patrick Raymond McDonald, 51, is being held on $1 million bail for allegedly assaulting another man with an aluminum baseball bat causing severe injuries. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Arrowbear, CA – The 51-year-old Running Springs man accused of hitting an unidentified man with an aluminum baseball bat several times has entered not guilty pleas to all charges.

Patrick Raymond McDonald is being held at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga on $1 million bail. He is charged with attempted murder, two counts of inflicting great bodily injury on another person, assault with a deadly weapon, and making criminal threats which will result in death or great bodily injury.

THE INCIDENT

On Saturday, May 14, Twin Peaks deputies responded to the 32000 block of Deer Lick Drive in Arrowbear at about 9:25 p.m. to assist the California Highway Patrol with a domestic disturbance incident.

CHP officers from the Arrowhead office were called to the residence regarding an assault, according to a press release issued by the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station.

CHP officers had located both McDonald and the victim, who had severe injuries. Medical aid was summoned to the location and deputies were requested to respond.

THE INVESTIGATION

Once deputies arrived at the Arrowbear residence they assumed the investigation and took custody of a firearm that was recovered at the scene.

Deputies found the unconscious victim inside the residence with a severe head wound, according to the media advisory.

A witness told investigators that McDonald had struck the victim in the head several times with the bat.

Detectives conducted the investigation and determined McDonald assaulted the victim without cause.

The victim was transported to Mountains Community Hospital with severe head trauma.

THE ARREST/COURT APPEARANCE

Due to the nature of the injuries and circumstances surrounding the assault, McDonald was arrested and booked into the West Valley Detention Center.

A video arraignment was held at 1 p.m. on May 17 and McDonald entered the not guilty pleas. The Public Defender was detained to represent the suspect.

A pre-preliminary hearing has been set for 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, May 25, in Department S-11.

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The Arrowhead CHP office will be conducting a sobriety checkpoint at an undisclosed mountain location on Saturday, May 21. Don’t drink and drive or you could end up in custody. It’s a sobering thought! (File Photo by ROTWNEWS.com)

By G. T. Houts

Mountain Communities – The CHP will be conducting a sobriety/drivers license checkpoint on Saturday, May 21, in the unincorporated mountain area of San Bernardino County. The exact location is not announced.

The goal of the checkpoint — which will be staffed by the Arrowhead CHP office — is to ensure the safe passage of each and every motorist in the mountain communities.

“A sobriety checkpoint,” according to the media release issued by CHP Officer Juan Quintero, “is a proven effective tool for achieving this goal and is designated to augment existing patrol operations. The CHP will be keeping a close eye out for impaired drivers.

“The checkpoint is designed to augment existing patrol operations,” Quintero added.

Drivers who are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs can be expected to be arrested, Quintero emphasized in his media advisory.

DON’T DRINK & DRIVE

If you’re going to drink…

• Designate a driver.
• Call a cab.
• Stay at your home or hotel.
• Call a friend or family member. 

CHECKPOINT FUNDING

Funding for this checkpoint was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

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By G. T. Houts

UPDATE 7: Monday, April 18 – 8:42 a.m.

San Bernardino, CA – Bail has been set at $1 million for Frank Joseph “Black Fox” Popovich, Jr., 53, who is accused of fatally shooting 42-year-old James Clark outside a Big Bear nightclub on April 12.

This past week, Popovich was arraigned and entered a not guilty plea to the murder charge in San Bernardino County Superior Court. His next court appearance is a pre-preliminary hearing on Friday, April 22, at 8:30 a.m. in Department S-17.

Popovich remains in custody at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga.

UPDATE 6: Wednesday, April 13 – 4 a.m.

Big Bear Lake, CA – The man accused of the fatal shooting of 42-year-old James Clark outside a Big Bear Lake nightclub Tuesday morning — Frank Joseph “Black Fox” Popovich, Jr. — is scheduled to be arraigned on a murder charge on Thursday, April 14.

The arraignment is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. in San Bernardino County Superior Court, Department S-9.

Popovich — who operated the Black Fox Trading Company on Pine Knot Avenue — was arrested at 2 p.m. Tuesday, according to booking documents and is being held without bail at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga.

UPDATE 5: Tuesday, April 12 – 8:07 p.m.

Big Bear Lake, CA – An arrest has been made for the murder of 42-year-old James Clark outside the AV Nightclub in Big Bear Lake.

Frank Popovich (Facebook Photo)

Investigators revealed Frank Popovich, 53, resident of Big Bear Lake, is in custody charged with shooting Clark to death in the rear parking lot of the Pine Knot Avenue establishment. He was arrested without incident.

Officials have determined Clark and Popovich were acquaintances and were involved in a fight outside the nightclub during which time Clark was shot by Popovich, according to a press release issued by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

Popovich has been booked at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga.

UPDATE 4: Tuesday, April 12 – 6:37 p.m.

Big Bear Lake, CA – The 42-year-old man shot and killed outside a Big Bear Lake nightclub has been identified by friends as local artist James Clark.

James Clark shown inside the AV Nightclub, (Facebook Photo)

Clark — who was pronounced deceased after being transported to Bear Valley Community Hospital by Big Bear Fire personnel — was shot at least once in the back parking lot of the AV Nightclub in the 600 block of Pine Knot Avenue.

The incident was reported shortly after 1 a.m. Tuesday, April 12, according to a press release issued by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

An autopsy will be conducted to determine the exact cause of Clark’s death.

SUSPECT UNIDENTIFIED

Authorities have thus far declined to disclose information about the suspect in the case.

ROTWNEWS.com will continue to monitor the case and release information as it becomes available.

UPDATE 3: Tuesday, April 12 – 3:10 p.m.

Big Bear Lake, CA – The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department has released the following press release related to the shooting death of an unidentified 43-year-old white male:

On Tuesday, April 12, 2016 at 1:13 a.m. a Big Bear Lake Sheriff’s Deputy was driving behind the AV Nightclub on routine patrol when the bartender flagged him down to report a person had been shot in the rear parking lot of the bar. Medical personal from the Big Bear Lake Fire Department arrived and transported the victim to Bear Valley Community Hospital where he died. The victim was taken to the San Bernardino County morgue, where an autopsy will be done to determine the cause of death.

The Sheriff’s Department Homicide Detail and detectives from the Big Bear Station are working together to determine what occurred. The name of the victim is being withheld at this time until his family has been notified.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Homicide Detail, Detective Jon Cahow at (909)387-3589 or the Big Bear Station at (909)866-0100.

Updates will be provided as new information becomes available.

UPDATE 2: Tuesday, April 12 – 1:05 p.m.

Big Bear Lake, CA – The investigation of the fatal shooting in the parking lot behind the AV Nightclub on Pine Knot Avenue is ongoing.

Four yellow evidence markers have been placed in the nightclub’s back parking lot and there appears to be a black shoe and a baseball cap near the markers. (Photo by Jim Tunnell for ROTWNEWS.com)

For a time, 40-King was circling the area above the nightclub and homicide detectives questioned witnesses and crime scene investigators checked out evidence and placed yellow evidence markers at several locations..

KNBC Channel 4 has indicated that the victim is a 43-year-old male.

However, that fact has not been verified by the Sheriff’s Department.

ROTWNEWS.com is awaiting a press release from the Sheriff’s Department.

As soon as it is available that information will be added to this story along with additional information provided to the media by authorities at the crime scene.

Employees and patrons were questioned by authorities for several hours after the incident was reported. (Photo by Jim Tunnell for ROTWNEWS.com)

UPDATE: Tuesday, April 12 – 9:31 a.m.

Big Bear Lake, CA – Additional details about the fatal shooting outside a Big Bear nightclub in the 600 block of Pine Knot Avenue indicate a Sheriff’s unit was flagged down to report the shooting about the time the 9-1-1 call was received by dispatch.

The first unit on scene at the AV Nightclub informed Big Bear Fire that the scene was secure and therefore they were not required to stage. The deputy stated, “come on in.”

The victim was transported to Bear Valley Community Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Scanner reports show the second deputy on scene ran “wants and warrants” on an individual and his vehicle but noted that the information was “unconfirmed.”

ORIGINAL STORY

Big Bear Lake, CA – Homicide detectives are investigating a shooting outside a night club in the 600 block of Pine Knot Avenue in Big Bear Lake early Tuesday morning. The unidentified male victim was transported to an area hospital following the 1:15 a.m. incident and later died.

THE INCIDENT

The investigation is ongoing, however when deputies and emergency personnel responded to the back parking lot of the nightclub they found the man suffering from a gunshot wound, according to the Big Bear Sheriff’s Department.

Paramedics staged outside the area until the scene was secured by deputies and transported the victim to the hospital.

THE INVESTIGATION

The initial report from the scene is that the incident outside the nightclub took place after an apparent argument that began inside the AV Nightclub.

Patrons and employees were detained inside the club for an extended period as homicide detectives worked to determine what triggered the fatal incident.

Additional information will be released as it becomes available.

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On September 15, 2012, Ronald Michael Hitchcock was arrested for murder and since that time the wheels of justice have ground ever so slowly. But that could change next month. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Big Bear Lake, CA – Ronald Michael Hitchcock was 56 years old when he was arrested for the murder of his girlfriend Deborah Ann Crouch, 53, on September 15, 2012. He’s now 60 and has been in custody for almost 1,350 days at the West Valley Detention Center with bail remaining at $1 million.

Countless delays in the murder proceedings may finally be behind Ronald Michael Hitchcock. (File Photo)

A series of delays — some at the request of his attorney, some by stipulation and still others due to conflicting court cases — have delayed Hitchcock’s proceedings going to trial.

But now, Judge Harold T. Wilson, Jr. has scheduled two hearings that should lead to Hitchcock’s trial for Crouch’s murder after the Erwin Lake woman and her dog were found deceased in Big Bear Lake.

HEARINGS SCHEDULED

Judge Wilson has added a pre-trial hearing to the court calendar on Friday, June 24, at 8:30 a.m. in Department S-16.

The court has also set a trial readiness hearing for Friday, July 15, at 8:30 a.m. in the same courtroom.

Judge Wilson’s scheduling on Friday, May 20, could lead to a jury trial for Hitchcock. . .at long last.

THE CASE

Hitchcock is facing two felony charges after Crouch’s body and that of a dog were retrieved from a submerged car in Big Bear Lake on September 15, 2012.

Big Bear Sheriff’s deputies responded to the Swim Beach area of Meadow Park at about 6 a.m. on that date and made contact with a man (Hitchcock) — who was inside the fencing at Swim Beach and yelling — he explained his vehicle had crashed through the locked front gate and into the lake, according to a Big Bear Sheriff’s Station press release issued following the incident.

Sheriff’s Aviation’s 40-King was dispatched about 7 a.m. and, once over the scene, mapped the GPS coordinates of the car’s location.

The car was located about 20 yards out from the beach and members of the department’s dive team went into Big Bear Lake and found the vehicle, which contained the female victim (Crouch) and a dog.

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Garrett Alan Pennington, 29, is scheduled for arraignment May 25 on attempted murder and assault with a deadly weapon charges. A video arraignment set for May 24 was not held. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Crestline,. CA – The man accused of stabbing two people while they slept in a residence in the 23000 block of Skyland Drive in Crestline appears in Department S-9 for arraignment at 8:30 a.m., May 25. A video arraignment scheduled for May 24 was not held.

Garrett Alan Pennington, 29, changed with attempted murder and assault with a deadly weapon, is in custody at the West Valley Detention Center. He is being held on $50,000 bail.

THE INCIDENT

Deputies and detectives arrived on scene at approximately 9:34 a.m. on May 20 and located victim #1 laying on the floor of the kitchen and victim #2 in the living room, according to a press release issued by the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station.

“Victim #1 had significant stab wounds to the abdomen and arm. Victim #2 had stab wounds to the left side of her torso and her left arm” the release stated.

The Crystal Report issued by the Sheriff’s Department indicates the victims were Pennington’s wife and her roommate.

CONTACT WITH SUSPECT

Deputies also contacted Pennington in the residence and found him to have a laceration to his right hand.

Deputies — who founded Pennington in possession of the knife allegedly used in the stabbings — determined the suspect stabbed victim #1 and victim #2 while the two were asleep.

The exact reason for the attack is still under investigation at this time, the release noted.

Both victims were transported by San Bernardino County Fire to a local trauma center and treated.

THE ARREST

Pennington was placed under arrest at 11:33 a.m. and treated for the wound on his hand at the hospital.

He was then booked at the West Valley Detention Center.

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Murder suspect Frank Joseph “Black Fox” Popovich, Jr. was in court Thursday, May 26, for a pre-preliminary hearing related to the shooting death of Big Bear artist James Clark. During the proceedings the preliminary hearing set for May 31 was vacated. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

UPDATE: Thursday, May 26 – 2:50 p.m.

San Bernardino, CA – During Thursday’s pre-preliminary hearing for Frank Joseph “Black Fox” Popovich, Jr., 53, who is accused of fatally shooting 42-year-old James Clark outside a Big Bear nightclub last month, Judge Richard V. Peel vacated a scheduled preliminary hearing for Tuesday, May 31.

Judge Peel set a disposition/reset hearing for Wednesday, June 29, at 8:30 a.m. in Department S-17.

Popovich remains in custody at the West Valley Detention Center on $1 million bail.

ORIGINAL  STORY

San Bernardino, CA – A pre-preliminary hearing for Frank Joseph “Black Fox” Popovich, Jr., 53, who is accused of fatally shooting 42-year-old James Clark outside a Big Bear nightclub last month, is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 26.

Frank Popovich (Facebook Photo)

Judge Richard V. Peel — who will preside over the hearing in Department S-17 — has also scheduled a preliminary hearing for Tuesday, May 31, at 8:30 a.m.

The incident was reported shortly after 1 a.m. on Tuesday, April 12, according to a press release issued by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

Officials determined Clark and Popovich were acquaintances and were involved in a fight outside the nightclub during which time Clark was allegedly shot by Popovich.

Clark was pronounced deceased after being transported to Bear Valley Community Hospital by Big Bear Fire personnel

James Clark inside the AV Nightclub. (Facebook Photo)

$1 MILLION BAIL

Popovich — who is being represented by a deputy public defender — remains in custody at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga.

Bail remains at $1 million.

On April 14, Popovich — who operated the Black Fox Trading Company on Pine Knot Avenue — was arraigned on the murder charge and entered a not guilty plea to the fatal shooting of the local artist.

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