Missing New Mexico mother found dead 1 year after vanishing

June 1 (UPI) -- Human remains discovered last week in Carson National Forest in New Mexico have been identified as the body of 53-year-old Melissa Casias, a mother who went missing nearly a year ago.

A hiker discovered human remains in the McGaffey Ridge area of the national forest on Thursday. Investigators said Sunday the remains have been identified as those of Casias.

"Investigators also learned that a handgun was located alongside the remains," New Mexico State Police said in a statement on Saturday.

Casias' remains were found about six miles from her home. She was reported missing on June 26 after her supervisor called her husband, Mark Casias, looking for her. Mark Casias said she dropped him off at Los Alamos National Laboratory where they both worked earlier in the day that she vanished.

Melissa Casias also brought her daughter lunch, Sierra, the day she went missing. Sierra was working at John Dunn Shops in Taos, N.M.

Casias' daughter said she found her mother's cell phones, purse, keys and wallet at home. Doorbell camera footage recorded Casias walking alone on State Road 518 that afternoon.

Casias' family released a statement on Sunday.

"We confirm that the remains found in Rio Ciquito are Melissa," the statement reads. "There will be more information to come but what we can tell you now is she was located in an area previously searched. This is a lot to process, our hearts are heavy and we fully intend to continue to pursue answers for justice."

The Office of the Medical Investigator identified the remains. It is yet to determine the cause of death.

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This story was originally published June 1, 2026 at 10:21 AM.