Sonora, CA…On October 7, 2021, detectives executed a search warrant at Purely Storage in Sonora during a missing person investigation. As a result of the search, detectives located a deceased male inside the storage unit, prompting a death investigation. The victim was identified as 76-year-old Craig Arthur Hale of Twain Harte.

Pictured Above on left is suspect Berrigan, on right is victim Craig Hale

Through several weeks of investigations, detectives were able to identify 49-year-old Steven Mathew Berrigan as the suspect. In addition to being charged for murder, Berrigan has also been charged with stealing the victim’s vehicle and identity theft. Berrigan is currently in custody in the Tuolumne County Dambacher Detention Center.

We extend our sincerest condolences to the Hale family and friends of Craig Hale.

If anyone has information regarding this case, please contact Detective J. Lee at 209-694-2955.