Two Brothers Found Dead Near California Highway 3 Weeks After Going Missing
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/eric-james-fuller-070125-6eaafa2dce3d427b8ffc3152c953c498.jpg)
The bodies of James Fuller, 61, and his brother Eric, 60, were discovered by a wrecked vehicle near State Route 166 highway in California on June 25. The pair were last seen heading out for a doctor’s appointment in Santa Maria on June 6 before the family reported them missing. A family member expressed their devastation on a GoFundMe page, stating, “This is not the outcome we prayed for. Our hearts are broken.”
James Fuller, 61, and his brother Eric, 60, left Cuyama on June 6 to drive approximately 130 miles to Santa Maria for a scheduled doctor’s appointment. They never arrived at their destination, prompting the family to file a missing persons report. James’ daughter, Krystle Scott, shared on Facebook that their phones were unreachable, with all calls going straight to voicemail, and there had been no contact from the brothers since that day. The men were travelling in a blue 1998 GMC two-door truck at the time.
A Caltrans employee discovered an overturned vehicle concealed in heavy brush in an embankment with the bodies of two men near Old Sierra Madre Road off State Route 166 on June 25. The California Highway Patrol confirmed the tragic discovery, with the family later verifying that James and Eric were the deceased individuals. DNA testing is underway to officially confirm their identities, according to the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office.
The family expressed profound sadness at the news, stating, “For 21 long days, we searched tirelessly… it’s been devastating beyond words. This is not the outcome any of us prayed for.” A GoFundMe page has been set up to help cover funeral costs, with donations currently at $1,435 towards a $10,000 goal. The California Highway Patrol conducted patrols and aerial searches while friends and family also joined the efforts to locate the Fuller brothers.
James and Eric, who grew up in Pismo Beach, were cherished members of a large, loving family. James’ daughter highlighted how they were adored by their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. The cause of the crash is believed to be accidental, although investigations are ongoing as confirmed by the sheriff’s office. California Highway Patrol and San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office have been contacted for official statements but have yet to respond.
The tragic circumstances of the Fuller brothers’ deaths have deeply affected their community and loved ones. The outpouring of support on the GoFundMe page reflects the widespread impact of this heartbreaking loss. As investigations continue into the accident, the family and friends of James and Eric Fuller mourn their untimely passing and cherish the memories of the beloved brothers.
The Fuller brothers’ story is a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing each moment with loved ones. The community coming together to support the family in their time of grief demonstrates the strength found in unity during challenging times. May James and Eric Fuller rest in peace, their spirits forever cherished by those who knew and loved them.