Who Were The McStay Family? A Portrait of a California Dream Cut Short
In 2010, Joseph and Summer McStay were raising their young sons in the quiet town of Fallbrook, California, nestled in northern San Diego County. Joseph, 40, was an entrepreneur who ran Earth Inspired Products, a small but growing business that specialized in custom-made indoor fountains. Known for his creativity and strong work ethic, Joseph had ambitions to expand the business and was deeply involved in its day-to-day operations.
Summer McStay, 43, was a licensed real estate agent and full-time mother. Born Virginia Lisa Aranda, she had also gone by the name Summer Martelli. Described by those close to her as protective, nurturing, and fiercely devoted to her children, Summer balanced her roles in the household with poise. She was known for her artistic side and a strong personality that reflected her commitment to her family’s well-being.
- “What Happened to the McStays?”: 20/20 Reports October 3 2025
- Where Is Charles ‘Chase’ Merritt Now? 2025 Update & Profile
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Gianni and Joey Jr.: Young Lives Full of Promise
The couple’s children—Gianni, 4, and Joseph Jr., 3—were bright, playful, and full of life. Friends and relatives remember the boys as affectionate and curious, often seen playing in the family’s backyard or accompanying their parents on outings. Like many young families, the McStays cherished their time together, often documenting milestones and vacations in photos and home videos.
They had recently moved into a new home in Fallbrook, excited to start a fresh chapter. The house was still being fixed up, and Summer was busy decorating while Joseph continued to grow his business. By all outward appearances, the McStays were on a clear and hopeful path, focused on raising their children and building a future together.
A Network of Love and Support
Both Joseph and Summer had strong ties to their extended families. Joseph’s mother, Susan Blake, and his father, Patrick McStay, were actively involved in their lives. His brother, Michael, also played a central role in the family’s search for answers after their disappearance. Summer stayed closely connected to her sister and had recently spoken with her about home updates and family matters.
The McStays weren’t wealthy, but they had achieved a comfortable lifestyle rooted in hard work and simple pleasures. They were the kind of family who made weekend trips to the beach, celebrated holidays with relatives, and enjoyed evenings together in their living room. Their sudden disappearance in February 2010 sent shockwaves through their social circle and the broader community.
A Life Interrupted
Joseph and Summer were seen as dependable, loving parents. Neither had a history of reckless behavior or travel to dangerous areas, making their sudden absence even more puzzling. Their commitment to their children was unquestioned, and their dogs—left behind in the yard when they vanished—were yet another sign that whatever happened, it was not part of a plan.
The family’s disappearance captured national attention and puzzled seasoned investigators. Their absence didn’t align with any known risk factors or family troubles. It was this mystery, combined with their wholesome image, that made the McStay case stand out from so many other missing persons cases.
Remembering the McStays
In the years since the discovery of their remains in the Mojave Desert, the McStay family has come to symbolize both the fragility of life and the profound injustice of lives stolen without reason. Loved ones continue to honor their memory through memorials and advocacy for justice.
Joseph, Summer, Gianni, and Joey Jr. are remembered not only for the tragedy that ended their lives but for the warmth, ambition, and joy that defined them. Their story continues to resonate because it began as so many do—an ordinary family living an ordinary life, until everything changed.
More “What Happened to the McStays?”
- “What Happened to the McStays?”: 20/20 Reports October 3 2025
- Who Were The McStay Family? A Portrait of a California Dream Cut Short
- Where Is Charles ‘Chase’ Merritt Now? 2025 Update & Profile
