Newport Beach woman found dead at bottom of mountain embankment. Tech CEO husband accused of murder

The estranged husband of a Newport Beach woman whose body was discovered at the bottom of a steep mountain embankment has been arrested and charged with murder months after her death.

Authorities announced the arrest of Gordon Abas Goodarzi, 66, in connection with the death of Aryan Papoli, 58, who was found dead in November near the mountain community of Crestline in San Bernardino County. Investigators said Papoli’s body was located roughly 75 feet down a steep embankment after deputies responded to reports of a deceased person in the area.  

At the time, officials initially noted that Papoli’s injuries appeared consistent with a fall. However, after a more extensive review of the autopsy and evidence gathered during the investigation, the San Bernardino County Coroner ultimately ruled her death a homicide. Detectives continued investigating the case for weeks before identifying and arresting Goodarzi.  

According to investigators, Papoli had been reported missing from her home several days after her body was discovered. The case drew significant attention as authorities worked to identify the woman and determine how she ended up in the remote mountain location.  

Family members described Papoli as a successful businesswoman, artist, and mother who emigrated from Iran and later co-founded a clean energy company with her husband. Her son has since created an online memorial honoring her life and legacy.  

Goodarzi was arrested at his Rolling Hills home and has been charged with first-degree murder. He is being held as the criminal case moves forward through the court system. Investigators have not publicly disclosed a motive for the killing.  

Read The Full Article: https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-01-26/her-body-was-found-in-remote-mountain-town-weeks-ago-now-her-husband-has-been-accused-of-murder