Overview
- State police and the New Mexico Medical Investigator’s Office confirmed last week that human remains found in the McGaffey Ridge area of Carson National Forest belong to 53‑year‑old Melissa Casias.
- Investigators recovered a handgun at the scene and say the medical investigator will establish cause and manner of death as the probe continues.
- Casias had been reported missing on June 26, 2025 after leaving home without her personal items and being seen walking near State Road 518, which is reachable to the forest area where the remains were found.
- Her family has publicly confirmed the identification and said they intend to keep working with investigators to seek answers and justice.
- The case remains active with state police leading the investigation and the medical review expected to provide the key factual basis for next steps, including whether detectives treat the death as criminal.