Full Breakdown
Investigation Uncovers Human Remains in San Diego
12/4/2025, 1:59:41 PM
Discovery of Human Remains
Human remains belonging to multiple individuals were discovered at a residential property located at 3443 Newton Avenue in the Southcrest neighborhood of San Diego, California. The discovery was made on December 5, 2023, during a multi-agency investigation led by the FBI, California Highway Patrol (CHP), and the San Diego Police Department (SDPD). The search was initiated based on information obtained during a separate homicide investigation, prompting law enforcement to execute a search warrant at the property.
Connection to Dwight William Rhone
Dwight William Rhone, 74, has been identified as a person of interest in this investigation. Rhone, who previously resided at the Newton Avenue property, is currently in custody facing charges related to the murder of Bernardo Moreno, 54. Moreno was shot and subsequently burned on October 18, 2023, with Rhone accused of committing the crime on Interstate 905. Rhone has a lengthy criminal history, with at least 33 prior offenses documented from 1963 to 2021, and was recently sentenced to 37 months in federal prison for an unrelated case.
Investigation Details
The search at the Newton Avenue residence involved the use of forensic canines and specialized evidence collection teams. Investigators were seen digging in the backyard and searching crawl spaces, leading to the recovery of what appeared to be human bones. The San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office is now tasked with identifying the remains and determining the cause of death. As of now, no additional charges have been filed concerning the newly discovered remains.
Impact on Current Residents
The current occupants of the property, sisters Judith and Selena Estrada Gonzalez, were temporarily displaced during the investigation. They reported being informed by authorities that the search was related to previous residents and ongoing cold case investigations. Judith Estrada Gonzalez recounted the moment law enforcement arrived at their home, stating, “Two people came up to our door on a Sunday evening... and they just come to our door to tell us that we have to leave.”
Official Statements
The FBI confirmed their involvement in the investigation, stating, “FBI San Diego assisted... on a cold case homicide. The FBI worked closely with our law enforcement partners... to execute a search warrant... in the recovery of human remains.” The SDPD has also indicated that detectives will collaborate with the Medical Examiner’s Office to ascertain the identities and causes of death related to the remains found.
What's Next
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information regarding Rhone’s activities or related crimes to contact the SDPD homicide unit. The community remains on alert as the investigation unfolds, highlighting ongoing concerns about unsolved deaths and public safety in the area.
