Person Detained as FBI Returns to Thermal Home in T’neya Tovar Case

DNA confirmation of remains near the Salton Sea refocused the investigation on locations tied to her disappearance.

Overview

Authorities detained a person Friday at a Thermal property where agents and deputies conducted renewed operations linked to the case.
The Imperial County Sheriff’s Office on Thursday confirmed that remains found in Salton City in December were T’neya Tovar’s following DNA analysis.
Investigators reported an initial female DNA profile on February 6 before a comparison sample from Tovar’s mother confirmed the identification.
The FBI and Imperial County Sheriff’s Office continue a joint investigation, with the bureau soliciting public tips through its hotline and website.
Deputies first recovered a decomposed human leg on December 21, 2025, near Portsmouth Avenue and Newhaven Court in the Vista Del Mar area; no charges have been announced.