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independent.co.uk

Cold Case Reopened: Hope in the Search for Melissa Montoya

The cold case of missing New Mexico woman Melissa Montoya is reignited after 23 years, thanks to a new tip and renewed media attention.

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English

United Kingdom

JusticeUs PoliticsInvestigationCold CaseHopeMissing Person

Jicarilla Apache Nation Police DepartmentArchuleta County Sheriff's OfficeBureau Of Indian AffairsDateline NbcMedicine Wheel Ride

Melissa MontoyaDarlene GomezJoseph SchakeMike Le RouxChris Rafferty

What new development has provided hope in the case?: A recent search of the boyfriend's property yielded no results, but a new tip from a woman who heard about an encounter the suspect had on the night of Melissa's disappearance has given investigators hope.
What happened on the night Melissa Montoya disappeared?: Melissa Montoya disappeared on March 9, 2001, after a night out in Dulce, New Mexico. Her boyfriend was found dead a month later, and their house burned down shortly after.
What impact has the renewed media attention had on the case?: The renewed attention to the case, spurred by a Dateline NBC story and Gomez's advocacy, has resulted in new tips and a renewed investigation, offering hope for solving Melissa's disappearance.
Who is Darlene Gomez, and what is her role in the investigation?: Darlene Gomez, Melissa's friend and cousin, has been advocating for MMIW cases for over 20 years and is working as a liaison between the family and law enforcement in this case.
What are some of the challenges facing investigators in this case?: The case is complicated by the involvement of multiple law enforcement agencies, incomplete police reports from 20 years ago, a lack of evidence, and a deceased suspect.

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