California couple duped by Tom Selleck imposter died in suspected murder-suicide
An elderly California couple, Karen and Donald Whitaker, died in a suspected murder-suicide following a scam involving an imposter claiming to be actor Tom Selleck. Police have indicated that evidence points to a murder-suicide, but the investigation is ongoing. The couple's tragic situation was exacerbated by Karen's belief in the scam, which led her to send significant sums of money to the fraudster.
- ▪The couple was found with traumatic injuries in their home after a welfare check by police.
- ▪Karen Whitaker believed she was communicating with Tom Selleck and sent the scammer approximately $30,000.
- ▪Despite attempts by family and friends to convince her otherwise, Karen continued to believe the scam was legitimate.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Metro California couple duped by Tom Selleck imposter died in suspected murder-suicide By Ross O'Keefe Published May 22, 2026, 4:10 p.m. ET See more of our coverage in your search results. Add The California Post on Google The elderly couple who fell victim to a Tom Selleck imposter before their mysterious demise died in a murder-suicide, police said Thursday. The Riverside Sheriff’s Office said that the evidence available to them points to a “murder suicide,” but they are still investigating their deaths before they will release a finalized cause. Police added that there “is no evidence to indicate” the scammer who targeted the couple had anything to do with their death.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at California Post.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from California Post
