Family of 3, along with dog, found dead in forest in Mariposa County

A family of three has been found dead after being reported missing in Mariposa County late Monday night.

John Gerrish, Ellen Chung, one-year-old daughter Muji, and the family dog were found dead near the Devil’s Gulch area in the Southfork of the Merced River drainage. The family’s vehicle was found nearby.

An investigation to determine the cause of the family’s death is underway. Deputies add that the incident scene is being handled as a HAZMAT and coroner investigation.

“This is never the outcome we want or the news we want to deliver, my heart breaks for their family. Our Sheriff’s Chaplains and staff are working with their family and will continue to support them during this heartbreaking time,” said Sheriff Jeremy Briese.