Missing Tribal Councilman Found Deceased In Coachella Valley

THERMAL, CA — A 45-year-old Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians Tribal Councilmember missing for a month was found dead in Thermal, authorities said Friday.

Cahuilla councilmember Raymond Torres was last seen July 1 about noon near Martinez Road and Polk Street, according to the California Highway Patrol, which activated the alert on behalf of the Riverside County Sheriff's Office.

Deputies conducted a search last Friday in the area of 87000 block of Avenue 66 in Thermal, where they found human remains, according to sheriff's Sgt. Lt. Deirdre Vickers.

The Sheriff Coroner's Bureau positively identified the remains as Torres. Vickers said there are no signs of foul play, and the investigation was ongoing.

"On behalf of the Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians Tribal Council, we extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends and all those affected by this tremendous loss. Raymond `MoonD' Torres Jr. was a member of our Tribal Council, and his passing is deeply felt by all who knew him," the Tribal Council posted to social media Thursday, adding tribal offices would be closed Monday to honor him and out of respect for his family, and will resume normal operations the following day.