WASHINGTON, DC – FEBRUARY 20: U.S. President Donald Trump (3rd L) presents the Public Safety Medal of Valor to (L-R) Deputy Shaun Wallen, San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, CA; Detective Bruce Southworth, San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, CA; Corporal Rafael Ixco, San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, CA; during an award ceremony at the East Room of the White House February 20, 2018 in Washington, DC. The medal is the nation’s highest award to public safety officers who have “exhibited exceptional courage, regardless of personal safety, in the attempt to save or protect human life.” (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images)
A fugitive wanted in connection with the slaying of three people was discovered hiding in Ensenada, Mexico, the San Bernardino County Sheriff said.
Phillip Williamson, 37, a resident of Hesperia, was found hiding in Ensenada Wednesday after yearlong investigation into the deaths of three people.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department said Williamson knew all three victims, but the exact relationships were not disclosed.
Williamson was wanted in the death of 35-year-old Brandi Jones, who was found dead in her car in a dirt field in Apple Valley on Aug. 30. A mug shot of Williamson was released in that investigation, but authorities said Williamson might have shaved his head and facial hair after he fled.
The sheriff's department also said investigators believe Williamson was tied to the killings of 43-year-old Jason Culberson and 37-year-old Melissa Graetz. Deputies on a welfare check Sept. 3 found the couple dead inside a home in Hesperia.
Williamson also is suspected in an arson at a residence Aug. 30.
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Williamson is due for arraignment Friday in Victorville Superior Court.
