Man Arrested for Fentanyl-Related Death of Nice Woman Following Lake County Investigation
NICE, CA — “Lake County Sheriff’s Office Makes Second Fentanyl Homicide Arrest. Released with permission from Carissa Morton’s family.
On February 28th, 2025, Carissa Morton, 28, of Nice, was reported missing to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies responded to Carissa’s residence located in the 3400 block of Beach Street in Nice, California. Deputies gained entry to the residence and, unfortunately, discovered Carissa deceased inside. During the initial death investigation, it was believed Carissa died from a fentanyl overdose.
Lake County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit Detectives immediately initiated a criminal investigation to determine who provided Carissa with the fentanyl. Over the course of the investigation, detectives interviewed witnesses, served search warrants, analyzed digital evidence, and reviewed video surveillance footage.
Based on the evidence collected, detectives identified Ryan Stahl, 40, of Lucerne, as the individual responsible for supplying the fentanyl that led to Carissa’s death.
An autopsy was conducted, and in May 2025, toxicology results confirmed that the cause of death was a fentanyl overdose.
The Major Crimes Unit referred the case to the Lake County District Attorney’s Office for review, and it was determined that Stahl would be prosecuted for the murder of Carissa. On June 18th, 2025, detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Stahl and located him in Lucerne. Stahl was placed under arrest for Second Degree Murder, Possession of a Controlled Substance for Sale, and Transportation of a Controlled Substance for Sale.
This case marks Lake County’s second fentanyl homicide arrest. The Sheriff’s Office is proud to be at the forefront of investigating these complex cases and seeking justice for victims. We want to acknowledge the dedication of the detectives and deputies involved in this case, whose diligent work made this arrest possible.
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office will continue to combat the fentanyl crisis and hold fentanyl dealers accountable.
We extend our deepest condolences to Carissa’s family and friends during this difficult time.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. To access local support for mental health, substance use, or other behavioral health services, please visit lakecountyca.gov/173/Behavioral-Health-Services.
If anyone has information regarding this case, please contact the Lake County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit Tip Line at 707-262-4088.
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