This is not the conclusion anyone had hoped for.
According to ABC News, the Kern County Coroner’s Office has confirmed that a body pulled from the Kern River is that of missing McFarland City Manager John Wooner.
Wooner disappeared on May 14 after visiting a cemetery in Bakersfield. He was driving his city-issued SUV. Wooner’s body was found inside the submerged vehicle.
Authorities believe Wooner died at the scene but have not issued a cause of death. That determination is pending an autopsy.
The city issued the following statement:
“The City of McFarland offers its condolences to the Wooner Family. Mayor Manuel Cantu asks all citizens to offer their prayers in support of the family.”
See also:
McFarland Places Its City Manager on Leave
McFarland Hires Interim Replacement for Missing City Manager