Victorville Community Mourns the Sudden Death of 38-Year-Old Michael Colquitt Near Eva Dell Park

Victorville Community Mourns the Sudden Death of 38-Year-Old Michael Colquitt Near Eva Dell Park

VICTORVILLE, Calif. — Authorities have confirmed the identity of a man found deceased Thursday morning near Eva Dell Park as 38-year-old Michael Colquitt, a resident of the Victorville area. According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, Colquitt’s body was discovered by a passerby in a grassy area near the park’s western edge, prompting a swift response from deputies and emergency medical personnel.

The tragic discovery was made shortly after 7:30 a.m. on June 20, when a jogger noticed what appeared to be an unresponsive man lying near a walking path just north of Forrest Avenue. Paramedics pronounced Colquitt dead at the scene. Following an initial assessment, authorities stated that foul play is not suspected in his death. The San Bernardino County Coroner’s Office has taken custody of the body and will conduct an autopsy to determine the official cause and manner of death.

Recent Investigations Heighten Community Concern

While officials do not believe Colquitt’s death was the result of violence or criminal activity, his passing comes amid a series of recent investigations in the Victorville area, many of which remain under scrutiny. Local residents have grown increasingly concerned over public safety in and around Eva Dell Park, a space that has long served as a central recreational hub for families, walkers, and youth sports teams.

Although law enforcement has not linked Colquitt’s death to any of the ongoing investigations, the recent rise in police activity in the region has heightened public sensitivity. Residents are calling for more visible patrols, better lighting, and improved community engagement programs to deter criminal activity and ensure safe access to public spaces.

Who Was Michael Colquitt?

Described by friends and loved ones as kind-hearted, soft-spoken, and genuinely caring, Michael Colquitt’s sudden passing has left many in shock. A long-time resident of Victorville, he was known to frequent Eva Dell Park for morning walks and quiet reflection.

Colquitt, who had worked in warehouse logistics and part-time landscaping, was also a devoted son and brother. He was deeply involved in caring for his elderly mother and had recently begun volunteering with a local food pantry.

“He was one of those people who’d give you the shirt off his back,” said family friend Tasha Martin, who spoke outside the family home. “He was going through some personal things, sure, but he had a good heart and was trying to do better.”

Sources close to the family say Colquitt had experienced periods of housing instability and some mental health challenges in recent years, but that he had found a renewed sense of direction and peace in recent months. He was last seen by family members on Wednesday evening and was believed to have gone for a morning walk on Thursday, as was his routine.

Law Enforcement Statement and Investigation

The Victorville Police Department, which patrols the city under contract with the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, released a brief statement confirming Colquitt’s identity and assuring the public that a thorough investigation is ongoing, though no signs of trauma or foul play have been detected at this time.

“This appears to be a non-suspicious death. However, we are continuing our investigation to rule out any underlying medical or environmental causes. We extend our condolences to Mr. Colquitt’s family and friends,” the statement read.

The area near the park where Colquitt was found was cordoned off for several hours Thursday morning as investigators documented the scene. The park reopened to the public later that afternoon.

Community Response and Calls for Support Services

Colquitt’s death has stirred conversations among local advocacy groups and social service organizations about the need for increased mental health resources, wellness checks, and outreach efforts, particularly for individuals who may be dealing with invisible struggles such as depression, homelessness, or trauma.

“Michael didn’t die in vain,” said Terrell Hughes, director of the Victor Valley Outreach Collective. “Let his passing be a wake-up call that even in a city as large as ours, people can still fall through the cracks unless we truly look out for one another.”

A candlelight vigil is being organized for Saturday evening at Eva Dell Park, where friends, family, and community members will gather to remember Colquitt’s life and legacy. Organizers say the vigil will also serve as an opportunity to advocate for stronger mental health support networks across San Bernardino County.

Final Thoughts

As the Victorville community mourns the loss of one of its own, the life and memory of Michael Colquitt serves as a poignant reminder that behind every police call, every investigation, and every tragic headline, there is a human story.

Colquitt is survived by his mother, two siblings, and a close-knit group of lifelong friends who say they will remember him for his warmth, his laughter, and his resilience in the face of hardship.

Rest in peace, Michael. You mattered. You were loved. You will not be forgotten.