The San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office has filed murder charges (PC 187(a)) against Gordon Abas Goodarzi (66) of Rolling Hills for the November 18, 2025, death of his estranged wife, Aryan Papoli (58) of Newport Beach.
On Tuesday, November 18, 2025, a few days after Papoli had gone missing, deputies from the Twin Peaks Station responded to Highway 138 and Crestline Road for a report of a deceased person found. When deputies arrived, they located the decedent approximately 75 feet down a steep embankment.
The Specialized Investigations Division responded and assisted in the investigation. The San Bernardino County Fire Department also responded and retrieved the victim from the side of the mountain before she was transported to the Coroner’s Office. She remained unidentified for approximately two weeks.
On December 1, Aryan Papoli, was positively identified. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, Specialized Investigations Division (Homicide), conducted the lengthy investigation leading to the filing decision.
On January 23, the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office, Homicide Unit, filed PC 187(a) – Murder, and further alleges aggravating circumstances pursuant to Penal Code section 1170(b)(2).
“From the initial response on a steep mountain embankment to the extensive investigation that followed, this case reflects the joint efforts of multiple law enforcement agencies.” said District Attorney Jason Anderson. “We are grateful for their coordination throughout the investigation and extend our sincere appreciation to the Newport Beach Police Department and Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer for their assistance and collaboration.”
Goodarzi is scheduled to be arraigned on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, in Department S7 at San Bernardino Justice Center.
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Case No.: FSB26000338