Missing 72-year-old landlord killed by her tenant, California officials say

A search for a missing landlord resulted in the arrest of one of her tenants in connection with her death, California sheriff’s officials reported.

Mindy Kum, 72, of Phelan was reportedly last seen in Tustin, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office said in a news release.

Her family reported her missing to authorities on Tuesday, Sept. 2, deputies said.

An investigation found Kum was last known to be in the Phelan area, and on Sept. 4, investigators found her remains on one of her rental properties there, deputies said.

Margaret Minier, 57, who lives on the property, faces a charge of murder in Kum’s death, deputies said.

Detectives ask that anyone with information call 909-890-4904.

Phelan is about a 30-mile drive northwest from San Bernardino.

This story was originally published September 8, 2025 at 9:21 AM with the headline "Missing 72-year-old landlord killed by her tenant, California officials say."