Claremont, CA — Authorities have released new details in the long-cold case of Ruben Moreno, a Southern California man who vanished in 2019 after living with members of a fringe religious group. Despite years without contact, his family continues to seek answers about his fate.
Last Seen in 2017 at Religious Gathering Home
According to the Claremont Police Department, Ruben Moreno, now 49, was last seen in December 2017 at a residence in the 3900 block of Swarthmore Court in Claremont — a location previously occupied by members of the religious organization “His Way Spirit Led Assemblies.”
“The circumstances surrounding Ruben’s disappearance remain under investigation, and at this time, the Claremont Police Department is not commenting on whether foul play is suspected,” authorities said.
Moreno wasn’t reported missing until August 2019, when his family contacted police, alarmed that they had not heard from him in nearly two years. At the time, he was living in the Claremont home with other members of the group, which has since vacated the property.
Description and Ongoing Concerns
Moreno is described as a Hispanic man, standing 5 feet 6 inches tall, weighing around 180 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair. His loved ones have not received any communications since 2017, and their concern for his safety remains high.
Links to Another Missing Persons Case
Moreno is the second known missing person with ties to His Way Spirit Led Assemblies. In May 2023, Emilio Salem Ghanem, 42, of Nashville, was reported missing shortly after visiting a Starbucks in Redlands. According to investigators, Ghanem had recently left the organization before vanishing.
Despite speculation online, police say there is currently no known connection between the two cases.
“We are aware of public interest in possible connections between this case and a separate missing persons investigation out of Redlands,” said Claremont Police in a statement published by KTLA News. “At this time, the only known similarity between the two cases are the individuals’ ties to His Way Spirit Led Assemblies. The cases are being investigated separately by their respective agencies.”
Investigation Still Active
Although nearly six years have passed since Moreno was last seen, detectives have not closed the case. It remains unclear whether Moreno left voluntarily, became the victim of foul play, or met some other unknown fate.
Authorities continue to encourage the public to come forward:
- Anyone with information about Ruben Moreno’s whereabouts or circumstances surrounding his disappearance is urged to contact the Claremont Police Department at 909-399-5411.
- Anonymous tips can also be submitted for those wishing to remain confidential.
Community Remains Watchful
The mystery surrounding Moreno’s disappearance continues to grip both local residents and advocates who monitor potentially high-control religious groups. Though no formal accusations have been made against “His Way Spirit Led Assemblies,” both cases have raised broader concerns about transparency and safety within closed spiritual communities.
Have any insights about this case or others like it? Share your thoughts in the comments.
