Santa Barbara County officials confirmed Thursday that the body of David Mireles, a 53‑year‑old resident of Shafter, was found near the Main Jail Administration building. Mireles had been missing since his release from sheriff’s custody on Thursday, Aug. 20, after a DUI arrest by the California Highway Patrol.
Discovery and Identification
At approximately 2:50 p.m. on Aug. 27, a custody staff member noticed a figure beneath brush beside the jail’s administration wing. The staff member alerted the sheriff’s dispatchers, and first‑responders quickly determined the individual was deceased. The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office Coroner’s detective arrived on scene to assist with identification.
Fingerprint analysis confirmed the remains belonged to David Mireles, a Shafter native. The sheriff’s office released a statement noting that Mireles was considered an at‑risk missing person because of several medical conditions.
Timeline of Events
Mireles was arrested for driving under the influence earlier that week. After processing, he was released from custody at roughly 10:23 a.m. on Aug. 20. Later that morning, the California Highway Patrol notified the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office that Mireles had been reported missing in Shafter, Kern County. Deputies conducted searches in the surrounding area but did not locate him.
Investigators believe Mireles likely arrived at the hillside near the jail shortly after his release. The location where his body was found slopes down toward Honor Farm Road, which may have concealed him from the initial search efforts.
Investigation Status
At this stage, the sheriff’s investigators have found no indication of foul play. The cause and manner of death remain undetermined and are pending further review by the Santa Barbara County Coroner’s Bureau.
The sheriff’s office emphasized that while the investigation continues, there is no evidence to suggest criminal activity. They also urged anyone with additional information to contact the department.
Community Impact
The discovery has raised concerns among local residents about the safety of individuals with health challenges who are released from custody. Community leaders and faith‑based groups have expressed sympathy for the Mireles family and called for continued vigilance in supporting at‑risk individuals.
Authorities plan to keep the public informed as the coroner’s investigation proceeds.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
