JOSHUA TREE – (INT) - The case of two missing hikers found dead in the Joshua Tree National Park has ended with a conclusion of murder-suicide.

San Bernardino County Sheriff’s investigators determined that Joseph Orbeso, 22, shot Rachel Nguyen, 20, and then himself. They based their conclusions on evidence found at the scene and autopsies of the couple. There were no theories set forth on Orbeso’s actions.

The Orange County couple was reported missing July 28th by the owner of a bed and breakfast in the Morongo Basin area. The owner told deputies his guests possibly went hiking in the Joshua Tree National Park and had not returned to check out.

The couple’s vehicle was found vehicle near a trail head in the park.

A massive air and ground search continued until August 6th. Relatives posted a $10,000 reward.

On October 15th, as park ranger reported finding two bodies in an inaccessible, steep canyon north of the Maze Loop Trailhead.

Identification of the bodies and results of the investigation were completed Thursday.

Story Date: October 23, 2017