BDE: Body Found In Borrego Park ID'd As Missing Jewish College Student

By Staff Reporter
Posted on 01/10/18 | News Source: ABC7

The body of a 19-year-old man found in Borrego Park in Lake Forest has been identified as missing student Blaze Bernstein, and his death is being investigated as a homicide, according to Orange County sheriff's officials.

On Tuesday afternoon, at approximately 2 p.m., a search of the Foothill Ranch Park was initiated by sheriff's investigators. Bernstein's body was discovered in the brush surrounding the park.

Bernstein was last seen at about 11 p.m. on Jan. 2, and was reported missing by his family to Sheriff's Department investigators on Jan. 3.

Approximately 25 members of the sheriff's department search and rescue team surveyed the park and adjacent wilderness area Whiting Ranch on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Officials confirmed the case is being investigated as a homicide, and an autopsy will be performed Wednesday.

No additional information regarding the cause of death or the condition of the body was immediately released.

Sheriff's investigators are actively following multiple leads, but no suspect is in custody.

The investigation into this case is active and ongoing. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Orange County Sheriff's Department at 714-647-7000. Anonymous tips may also be submitted to Orange County Crime Stoppers at 855-TIP-OCCS.