Sheriff's Department Says Bermuda Dunes Double Death Investigation Appears to Be Murder-Suicide

New details are emerging in the investigation into the deaths of an elderly couple found inside a Bermuda Dunes home last week.

According to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, all evidence gathered so far suggests the deaths of Donald and Karen Whitaker were the result of a murder-suicide.

The investigation began late Friday after deputies conducted a welfare check at the couple’s home in Bermuda Dunes, where both were found dead from what authorities described as traumatic injuries.

As previously reported, friends of Karen Whitaker, 79, said she had recently fallen victim to an online scam involving someone allegedly impersonating actor Tom Selleck.

In a new update, sheriff’s officials confirmed Karen Whitaker had been the victim of financial elder abuse. However, investigators say there is no evidence linking the suspect or suspects involved in the scam directly to the couple’s deaths.

Still, friends close to the Whitakers believe the emotional toll surrounding the alleged fraud may have played a role in the tragedy.

Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing, but there is no known threat to the community at this time.