CAMP VERDE, AZ – In a chilling turn that has rattled the close-knit world of full-time RVers and snowbirds alike, a luxurious getaway spot turned into a crime scene this week when a woman was found dead in her RV at Verde Ranch RV Resort. Authorities are piecing together a harrowing tale of family betrayal, with the victim’s own son emerging as the prime suspect after a dramatic cross-country escape.
The nightmare unfolded on the morning of August 11, just after 9 a.m., at the upscale resort nestled along the Verde River – a popular pit stop for RV enthusiasts seeking high-end amenities like spacious pull-through sites, resort-style pools, and scenic hiking trails. Camp Verde Marshal’s Office Sgt. Dustin Richardson confirmed that the death is being treated as highly suspicious, with the scene centered on an RV shared by the deceased woman and her adult son.
What started as a routine welfare check exploded into a multi-state manhunt. Investigators revealed that the son allegedly committed the unthinkable act before bolting eastward in a vehicle, only to be nabbed by Tulsa Police in Oklahoma. “We’ve got officers chasing leads halfway across the nation,” Richardson told reporters, underscoring the intensity of the probe that has kept the RV cordoned off for days as forensic teams scour every inch for clues.
For the RV community, where bonds form fast over campfire chats and shared road stories, this hits especially hard. Verde Ranch, which debuted as CRR Hospitality’s flagship luxury RV resort back in August 2019, prides itself on a safe, serene vibe for wanderlust-driven nomads. But now, whispers of vulnerability echo through online RV forums and park lounges. Mike Harrison, CRR’s chief operating officer, kept it tight-lipped: “As an active investigation, we’re staying silent on details to respect the process.”
Adding a gut-wrenching layer to the tragedy is the fate of the victim’s cherished Pomeranian, Jersey – a fluffy sidekick that many RVers would call their “road baby.” According to the victim’s niece, Misty Richards, the dog was riding shotgun during the suspect’s frantic getaway but was nowhere to be found when he was collared in Oklahoma. “That little pup was her everything – she’d tote it everywhere, from site setups to sunset strolls,” Richards shared, her voice cracking with emotion. Jersey sports a collar etched with the late owner’s contact info, making any sighting a potential lifeline.
As the investigation revs into high gear, Richardson hinted at more revelations soon: “We’ve secured the area and are processing every shred of evidence – expect updates in the coming days.” In the meantime, fellow RVers are urged to stay vigilant about park safety, lock up those rigs, and keep an eye out for wandering pets.
If you’ve spotted Jersey or have tips on this RV resort horror, reach out to Misty Richards at 405-881-8330 or the Camp Verde Marshal’s Office at 928-554-8300. In the world of wheels and wanderers, community watch might just crack this case wide open.