Melissa Casias, a Los Alamos National Laboratory employee missing since June 2025, was found dead in a remote area of Carson National Forest, New Mexico. A hiker discovered her remains near McGaffey Ridge, with a firearm nearby. Authorities have not yet confirmed the official cause of death.
Private investigator Thomas McNally said Casias had a gunshot wound to the skull and described the case as suspicious.
Casias was last seen walking alone near Ranchos de Taos after reportedly leaving her home. Investigators said she had reset her phones and left her ID and belongings behind before disappearing.
The case gained national attention because of her work at Los Alamos and speculation surrounding other deaths and disappearances involving government employees. However, investigators say they do not believe her death is related to her job.
Her family has criticized the investigation and plans legal action against New Mexico State Police, claiming the case was mishandled. The investigation remains ongoing.