Press Release

On January 28, 2025, at 7:45 a.m., Mono County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) Dispatch received a call regarding a house in Benton full of smoke and a non-responsive person inside. White Mountain Fire Department (WMFD) and MCSO Deputies were dispatched to the area.

Upon arrival, WMFD and MCSO determined the fire had self-extinguished at some point during the night, and the person inside the house was clearly deceased. Based on the suspicious nature of the call for service, a crime scene was established, and State Fire Marshal arson investigators responded from Riverside.

Further investigation is currently being conducted to gather more information and clarify the circumstances surrounding the case. This investigation aims to uncover any relevant details which would require further examination. In conjunction with this inquiry, a forensic autopsy will be performed to provide a comprehensive analysis of the deceased’s body. This autopsy will involve a thorough examination by a qualified forensic pathologist, who will assess the physical condition of the body, identify any potential causes of death, and collect evidence that may be crucial for the ongoing investigation. The results of both the inquiry and the autopsy are expected to contribute significantly to understanding the situation and determining the appropriate next steps.

The deceased was identified as Ronald Stanley Keller, a 71-year-old from Benton, California. We send our condolences to Mr. Keller’s family and friends. Additional details will be released as they become available, provided the investigation will not be compromised.