Overview
- Human remains found April 12 along Caja del Rio Road near Santa Fe were identified as Joel “Deano” Valdez.
- New Mexico State Police said the investigation remains active and the cause and manner of death have not been determined.
- An individual walking a dog discovered the remains, and State Police asked anyone with information to call 505-841-9256.
- Valdez was last confirmed on security video at 5:40 p.m. on September 18, 2025 at an Allsup’s gas station on Cerrillos Road in Santa Fe.
- The Office of the Medical Investigator plans further anthropological review, and the family says the identification brings some closure without speculation.