SOUTH GATE, Calif. (KABC) -- An elementary school teacher from South Gate who mysteriously disappeared last week was found dead about 9 a.m. Sunday in the Angeles National Forest, authorities have confirmed.
The Coroner confirmed the body found by a search and rescue team near Big Tujunga Canyon Road is that of Rigoberto Ruelas, 39, a fifth grade teacher at Miramonte Elementary School.
Authorities said it is a suicide, but did not say how he killed himself. An autopsy is scheduled for Monday.
A car matching the one driven by Ruelas was parked nearby.
Ruelas' family became concerned when he failed to show up to work last week.
A teacher ratings report by the Los Angeles Times did not score Ruelas well. Family members said the teacher evaluation scores may have caused him to go missing.
I am very sensitive to teachers and suicide. Got both in the family. My heart goes out to the family and friends of Mr. Ruelas. And good luck to all you teachers during this difficult time. You should join us at
Miseducation Nation where we are trying to convince the world that poverty is the disease, failing schools are just a symptom.
