u/dogbehavior

Vamori Village John Doe/”Jose Luis Perez” (June 27, 2007)

• DATE OF DISCOVERY: June 27^(th), 2007

• LOCATION OF DISCOVERY: Vamori Village, Pima County, Arizona, USA (31°40'53.4"N 112°01'11.6"W (31.681500, -112.019900))

• ESTIMATED YEAR OF DEATH: 2007

• POSTMORTEM INTERVAL: < 1 week (Humane Borders)

• CONDITION OF REMAINS: Not recognizable – Decomposing/putrefaction

• CAUSE OF DEATH: Probable hyperthermia (Humane Borders)

• SEX: Male

• ESTIMATED AGE: 25 – 45 years old

• RACE: Hispanic

• WEIGHT: Cannot estimate

• HEIGHT (MEASURED): 5’3” (63 inches; 160.02 cm)

• EYE COLOUR: Unknown

• HAIR: Black

• DISTINGUISHING MARKS/FEATURES:

  • Black, thin moustache
  • Vertically oriented striations present on the facial surface of most of the anterior mandibular and maxillary teeth
  • Tattoo on left hand between index and thumb: Possible cross on top of heart or a “13" (green ink)

 

BACKGROUND

On June 27^(th), 2007, the remains of a Hispanic male were discovered in a remote desert area near Vamori Village, Arizona. It is believed he had been deceased less than a week prior to his discovery.

The individual is described as a Hispanic male between 25 to 45 years of age. He stood at 5’3” (63 inches; 160.02 cm) in height and had black hair. His weight and eye colour could not be determined.

He had a thin, black moustache, a tattoo in green ink of a possible cross on top of a heart of a “13” on his left hand between his index and thumb, and vertically oriented striations on the facial surface of most of his anterior mandibular and maxillary teeth.

A pair of black shoes or boots were discovered on his body. A pair of blue corduroy pants and a pair of gray boxer shorts with print pattern featuring the words "Living La Vida Loca" and a green lizard wearing a shirt and sunglasses were discovered near his body.

In March of 2021, his fingerprints matched to a “Jose Luis Perez”, possibly from Chiapas, Mexico. This identity has not been verified as of May 2026. There is a USBP apprehension photo available of the decedent alive, taken in 2000. I will include this photo, as well as the photos available of his pants, boxer shorts, and shoes. There is a phot of his teeth which is available on NamUs and the DoeNetwork.

 

CLOTHING/ITEMS – On the body, the following was noted

• Black shoes or boots (Brand “Calzados, Roy”; size “39”)

 

Near the body, the following was noted

• Blue corduroy pants (Brand “Gap”; style “Carpenter”; size “31x30”)
• Gray boxer shorts with a print pattern featuring the words "Living La Vida Loca" and a green lizard wearing a shirt and sunglasses (NamUs and DoeNetwork note the brand as "Marcardo's" but looking at the photo of the boxer shorts, it looks more like "Macaros" to me; NamUs and DoeNetwork note that the boxer shorts say "Living La Vida Loco" but looking at the photo of them, they appear to read "Living La Vida Loca".) (Brand “Marcardo’s” or "Macaros"; size “L”)

 

DENTIFIERS

• Dentals: Available
• Fingerprints: Available
• DNA: Unknown

 

INVESTIGATING AGENCY & OTHER CASE INFORMATION

AGENCY ONE

• Agency Name: Tohono O’odham Nation Police Department
• Agency Phone Number: 520-383-3275
• Agency Case Number: 07 06 27 074

AGENCY TWO

• Agency Name: Pima County Medical Examiner’s Office
• Agency Contact Person: Bruce Anderson (Forensic Anthropologist)
• Agency Phone Number: 520-724-8600
• Agency Case Number: ML 07-1164

OTHER INFORMATION/CASE NUMBERS

• NamUs Case Number: #UP4941
• DoeNetwork Case Number: #4706UMAZ

 

REFERENCES

• NamUs (#UP4941) (*WARNING: POSTMORTEM IMAGE OF TEETH*)
• DoeNetwork (4706UMAZ) (*WARNING: POSTMORTEM IMAGE OF TEETH*)
• Humane Borders - Arizona OpenGIS Initiative for Deceased Migrants - Case Number-based Spatial Search Map (ML 07-01164)

Ajo John Doe/"Armando Lopez-Rivera" (July 15, 2012)

• DATE OF DISCOVERY: July 15^(th), 2012

• LOCATION OF DISCOVERY: Ajo, Pima County, Arizona, USA (32°24'10.6"N 112°50'36.2"W (32.402930, -112.843380))

• ESTIMATED YEAR OF DEATH: 2012

• POSTMORTEM INTERVAL: Weeks

• CONDITION OF REMAINS: Not recognizable – Mummified

• CAUSE OF DEATH: Probable hyperthermia (exposure)

• SEX: Male

• ESTIMATED AGE: 30 – 55 years old (Humane Borders notes “49”)

• RACE: Hispanic

• WEIGHT (ESTIMATED): 150 pounds (68.0389 kg)

• HEIGHT (MEASURED): 5’4” (64 inches; 162.56 cm)

• EYE COLOUR: Brown

• HAIR: Black with some gray

• DISTINGUISHING MARKS/FEATURES: None noted

 

BACKGROUND

On July 15^(th), 2012, mummified remains were discovered in a remote desert area near Ajo, Arizona. The individual is believed to have been a Hispanic male between 30 to 55 years of age (as per NamUs; Humane Borders notes his age as "49". I am unsure where this was obtained, it may have been from one of the times he was apprehended by the USBP.) He weighed approximately 150 pounds (68.0389 kg) and stood at 5’4” (64 inches; 162.56 cm) in height. He had brown eyes and his hair was black with some gray in it.

The man’s fingerprints were run and matched to US Border Patrol (USBP) records for “…including multiple arrests and under several names, including Armando Lopez-Rivera. None of the names are verified.” (NamUs) NamUs notes that he was arrested under "several names" but only notes the one.

As per NamUs, the man had been released from a US prison in May of 2012 and was subsequently deported to Mexico on June 17^(th), 2012. His remains were discovered 28 days after this deportation.

He was found wearing dark jeans, a brown belt with a large silver buckle, gray socks, and brown shoes (they definitely look to be hiking boots and do not look brown to me or at least are not fully brown). Discovered near his body was a tan or white t-shirt, light blue boxer shorts with white stripes, a Dallas Cowboys hat (dark coloured, likely dark blue, with a white star), toiletries (no further information or description on this), and a tan rope.

There are three photos of him alive from previous apprehensions by the USBP. One from July 23^(rd), 2000, one from June 1^(st), 2010, and an undated one. I will include those photos, of course.

He likely attempted to cross the border again and sadly succumbed to the elements. This was likely not long after being deported in June as he is believed to have been deceased “weeks” (as per NamUs), possibly 3 weeks or less (as per Humane Borders) and he was discovered 4 weeks after being deported in June.

 

CLOTHING/ITEMS – On the body, the following was noted

• Dark jeans (No brand or size noted)
• Brown belt with large silver buckle (No brand or size noted)
• Gray socks (No brand or size noted)
• Brown shoes (No brand or size noted) (From the photos they appear to be hiking boots and do not look brown to me or at least are not fully brown)

 

Near the body, the following was noted

• Tan or white t-shirt (No brand or size noted)
• Light blue with white stripes boxer shorts (No brand or size noted)
• “Dallas Cowboys” hat (Dark coloured; possibly dark blue, with a white star)
• Tan rope
• Toiletries (No further information/description provided)

 

IDENTIFIERS

• Dentals: Unknown
• Fingerprints: Unknown
• DNA: Unknown

 

INVESTIGATING AGENCY & OTHER CASE INFORMATION

AGENCY ONE

• Agency Name: Pima County Sheriff's Office
• Agency Phone Number: 520-803-3280
• Agency Case Number: 12 07 15 059

AGENCY TWO

• Agency Name: Pima County Medical Examiner’s Office
• Agency Contact Person: Bruce Anderson (Forensic Anthropologist)
• Agency Phone Number: 520-724-8600
• Agency Case Number: ML 12-01693

OTHER INFORMATION/CASE NUMBERS

• NamUs Case Number: #UP12917
• DoeNetwork Case Number: 4865UMAZ

 

REFERENCES

• NamUs (#UP12917)
• DoeNetwork (4865UMAZ)
• Humane Borders - Arizona OpenGIS Initiative for Deceased Migrants (Case Number-Based Spatial Search Map) (ML 12-01693)

Topawa John Doe (May 19, 2025)

• DATE OF DISCOVERY: May 19^(th), 2025

• LOCATION OF DISCOVERY: Topawa, Pima County, Arizona, USA, 85639 (31°48'16.8"N 111°54'41.3"W (31.80466, -111.91146))

• ESTIMATED YEAR OF DEATH: 2024 – 2025

• POSTMORTEM INTERVAL: Up to 1 year (Humane Borders notes “< 3 months”)

• CONDITION OF REMAINS: Not recognizable – Near complete or complete skeleton

• CAUSE OF DEATH: Undetermined

• SEX: Male

• ESTIMATED AGE: 23 – 57 years old

• RACE: Uncertain

• WEIGHT: Cannot estimate

• HEIGHT: Cannot estimate

• EYE COLOUR: Unknown

• HAIR: Unknown

• DISTINGUISHING MARKS/FEATURES: 

  • Previously broken his nose, which was healed but had not set properly – this may have resulted in a visible bump on the bridge of his nose
  • Rotated front top teeth and crowding of the top and bottom teeth

 

BACKGROUND

On May 19^(th), 2025, skeletal remains were discovered in a desert area West of Topawa, Arizona. The individual may have been deceased up to a year prior to discovery, with an estimated year of death of 2024 – 2025.

It is believed that the individual was a male between 23 to 57 years of age. He had previously broken his nose, which was healed but had not set properly. This may have resulted in a visible bump on the bridge of his nose. He also had rotated front top teeth and crowding of his top and bottom teeth.

His race, height, weight, eye colour, and hair colour could not be determined.

Near the body a pair of “George” brand black boxer briefs and a pair of size 36x32 black “Dickies” brand “Original 874” style pants were discovered.

(*Currently, I am focusing mostly on cases of migrants who passed when crossing the Mexico-United States border. A lot of these cases have very little information provided.*)

CLOTHING/ITEMS – Near the body, the following was noted

• Black boxer briefs (Brand “George”; no size noted)
• Black pants (Brand “Dickies”; style “Original 874”; size “36x32”)

 

IDENTIFIERS – I could not find any information regarding identifiers

• Dentals: Unknown
• Fingerprints: Unknown
• DNA: Unknown

 

INVESTIGATING AGENCY & OTHER CASE INFORMATION

AGENCY ONE

• Agency Name: Pima County Medical Examiner’s Office
• Agency Contact Person: Bruce Anderson (Forensic Anthropologist)
• Agency Phone Number: 520-724-8600
• Agency Case Number: ML 25-1762

AGENCY TWO

• Agency Name: Tohono O’odham Nation Police Department
• Agency Phone Number: 520-383-3275
• Agency Case Number: 250519060

OTHER INFORMATION/CASE NUMBERS

• NamUs Case Number: #UP147517

 

REFERENCES

• NamUs (#UP147517)
• Humane Borders - Arizona OpenGIS Initiative for Deceased Migrants (ML 25-1762)

(*Marked as NSFW just in case seeing the dentures makes anyone uncomfortable*)

Cold Fields Village Jane Doe/”Anna Maria Del Rosario Gonzalez Ortiz” (May 29, 2001)

• DATE OF DISCOVERY: May 29^(th), 2001
• LOCATION OF DISCOVERY: Cold Fields Village, Pima County, Arizona, USA (31°40'09.0"N 111°43'14.0"W (31.669167, -111.720556))
• ESTIMATED YEAR OF DEATH: 2001
• POSTMORTEM INTERVAL: Weeks
• CONDITION OF REMAINS: Not recognizable – Decomposing/putrefaction
• CAUSE OF DEATH: Hyperthermia (exposure)

 

SEX: Female

ESTIMATED AGE: 34 – 62 years old

RACE: Hispanic

WEIGHT (MEASURED): 156 pounds (70.7604 kg)

HEIGHT (MEASURED): 4’10” (58 inches; 147.32 cm)

EYE COLOUR: Unknown

HAIR: Brown (dyed with red colouring; curly; 6 or more inches (15.24 cm) in length; 2 – 3% gray hairs present)

DISTINGUISHING MARKS/FEATURES: 

• Set of "...two pink acrylic dental plates with plastic teeth." (DoeNetwork)
  • The upper plate had –
    • CENTRAL INCISORS: Gold metallic strip between the top two front teeth
    • LEFT LATERAL INCISOR: "Exhibits a false gold crown with a "natural face" (DoeNetwork) (looks like a window)
    • RIGHT LATERAL INCISOR: "Exhibits a small stainless steel full crown added to the plate" (DoeNetwork)
  • The lower plate -
    • "Exhibits a repaired complete fracture of the right side of the denture in the area of the first premolar; the old fracture line split the prosthetic tooth." (DoeNetwork)

 

BACKGROUND

On May 29^(th), 2001, the body of a Hispanic woman was discovered on the Tohono O’odham Nation Reservation in the vicinity of Cold Fields Village in Pima County, Arizona. She was discovered 2.8 miles East and 4 miles North of mile post/marker 8 of Federal Route 19.

The woman was discovered under a tree, using her purse as a pillow. It is believed that she passed due to hyperthermia from exposure to the elements and had been deceased for up to 5 weeks prior to her discovery.

The Doe is described as a Hispanic woman between 34 to 62 years of age. She weighed 156 pounds (70.7604 kg) and stood at 4’10” (147.32 cm) in height. She had brown hair which had been dyed with red colouring, was 6 or more inches (15.24 or more cm) in length, and had 2 to 3% gray hairs present.

She was discovered wearing a blue short-sleeved button-up denim shirt, denim pants, dark coloured shorts with a white pattern around the bottom of each leg, black and white tennis shoes/sneakers, and white socks.

Also discovered was a black purse, a yellow metal crucifix, a yellow metal wristwatch, a white metal pocket watch with chain, sunglasses, a calculator, American currency, a birth certificate for a “Anna Maria Del Rosario Gonzalez Ortiz” born “August 25, 1952”, and a set of "...pink acrylic dental plates with plastic teeth." (DoeNetwork)

The upper dental plate had a gold metallic strip between the central incisors (front teeth), a "...small stainless steel full crown added to the plate." (DoeNetwork) on the right lateral incisor, and a "...a false gold crown with a "natural face"" (DoeNetwork) on the upper left lateral incisor. This gold crown looks like a window. On the lower plate, there was an apparent "...repaired complete fracture of the right side of the denture in the area of the first premolar; the old fracture line split the prosthetic tooth." (DoeNetwork)

 

CLOTHING/ITEMS – On the body, the following was noted

• Blue short-sleeved button-up denim shirt (No brand or size noted)
• Denim pants (No brand or size noted)
• Dark coloured shorts with white pattern around the bottom of each leg (No brand or size noted)
• Black and white tennis shoes/sneakers (No brand or size noted)
• White socks (No brand or size noted)

Near the body, the following was noted

• Black purse (No brand noted)
• Dentures (Set of "...pink acrylic dental plates with plastic teeth." (DoeNetwork))
• Yellow metal crucifix
• Yellow metal wristwatch (No brand noted)
• White metal pocket watch with chain (No brand noted)
• Sunglasses (No brand noted)
• Calculator (No brand noted)
• American currency
• Birth certificate for a “Anna Maria Del Rosario Gonzalez Ortiz” with a date of birth of “August 25, 1952”

EXCLUSIONS – Name (NamUs Case Number; Date of Last Contact; Last Known Location) (As per the Unidentified Wiki, I cannot check NamUs to see if there are any other exclusions)

• Gloria Cruz Medina (#MP35963; 25 April 1993; Phoenix, Arizona)
• Rosario Acosta Zazueta (#MP1123; 22 December 1995; Phoenix, Arizona)

IDENTIFIERS

• Dentals: Available
• Fingerprints: Available
• DNA: Available

 

INVESTIGATING AGENCY & OTHER CASE INFORMATION

AGENCY ONE

• Agency Name: Tohono O’odham Nation Police Department
• Agency Phone Number: 520-383-3275
• Agency Case Number: 2127640/36812

AGENCY TWO

• Agency Name: Pima County Medical Examiner’s Office
• Agency Contact Person: Mark Glenn (Forensic Medical Investigator) / Bruce Anderson (Forensic Anthropologist)
• Agency Phone Number: 520-724-8600
• Agency Case Number: ML 01-0861

OTHER INFORMATION/CASE NUMBERS

• NamUs Case Number: #UP7149
• DoeNetwork Case Number: 747UFAZ

 

REFERENCES

• NamUs (#UP7149)
• Humane Borders - Arizona OpenGIS Initiative for Deceased Migrants (ML 01-00861)
• DoeNetwork (747UFAZ)

Dulzura John Doe (February 17, 2004)

• DATE OF DISCOVERY: February 17^(th), 2004

• LOCATION OF DISCOVERY: Dulzura, San Diego County, California, 91917

• ESTIMATED YEAR OF DEATH: 2004

• POSTMORTEM INTERVAL: 4 months

• CONDITION OF REMAINS: Not recognizable – Mummified

• CAUSE OF DEATH: Not stated/Unknown

• SEX: Male

• ESTIMATED AGE: 20 – 25 years old

• RACE: Hispanic / Native American

• WEIGHT: Cannot estimate

• HEIGHT (ESTIMATED): 5’4” (64 inches; 162.56 cm)

• EYE COLOUR: Unknown

• HAIR: Black (straight, ¾ (0.75) inch (1.905 cm) which extends onto the back of the neck and is present on the temples)

• DISTINGUISHING MARKS/FEATURES: 

  • Black moustache (measuring up to 3/4 (0.75) inch (1.905 cm) in length)

 

BACKGROUND

At approximately 4:00 p.m., on February 17^(th), 2004, mummified remains were discovered “…near a freshly graded road…” (NamUs) in Dulzura, California. It is believed that the individual had been deceased approximately 4 months.

The individual is believed to be a Hispanic and/or Native American male between 20 to 25 years of age. He stood at 5’4” in height. He had black, straight hair that was ¾ inch in length; it extended onto the back of his neck and was present on his temples as well. He had a black moustache that measured up to ¾ inch in length.

Clothing discovered included:

• Denim blue jeans with thigh pockets and detachable (zip off) lower pant legs (brand “One Tuff Brand”; size “33 Waist, 32 Length”)
• Black shoe(s) with a metal buckle (these are not listed under items discovered but a photo is included on NamUs of one, so I am unsure if one or two were found) (no brand or size noted)
• Metal wristwatch with an analog face and leather wristband (Brand “Missimo”)

Other items discovered included:

• Two “stiff fabric items” were also found in the right thigh pocket of his jeans. These fabric items each measured 6 inches by ⅜ (0.375) inch wide. Both had a loop at one end and 3 ½ inches of loose, frilly string on the other end. One was yellow and blue with the sewn-on name “Rodolfo”, the other was red, green, and a yellow, and had the sewn-on name “Josefina”.
• Small piece of paper with “0446646717695 Lupita” (or “Lupitia”) handwritten on it.
• Colour photograph (1 ½ inches by ⅞ (0.875) inch) of a woman posing on a sidewalk. She appears to have long hair and is wearing a white sleeveless top and blue jeans.
• Spanish Bible which appears to be from “The Gideons International” church in Nashville, Tennessee. There is handwritten text (in pencil) on some pages, including: “2930 The (illegible) Race Castiac CA 91384 NCCF”, “765997”, “Raymundo Hernandez” (or possibly “Hernandes”), “799259 4A”, “oaxaca", and “3761960”. I describe this Bible more in depth in the paragraphs below.

Regarding the Bible:

On the first page (left side/page), there appears to be printed text at the top, but due to the condition of the pages it is hard to read.
Underneath this, there is handwritten text (all handwritten text was done in pencil) that reads, (at least in part, as the beginning difficult to read), “2930 930 the old Road Castiac CA 91384 NCCF”.
Underneath this, at the bottom of the page, there is printed text that reads “ESTE LIBRO NO SERA VENDIDO”.

On the second page (right side/page), there appears to be printed text at the top, but due to the condition of the pages it is hard to read, however, it looks to at least end with “A”. There is handwritten text above which NamUs says states “765997”.
Below that are five black lines which appear to be for writing information (possibly the information of the owner of the Bible?). Each line has handwritten text.
On the first line, it appears to read “Raymundo”.
The second line appears to read “Hernandez” (or possibly “Hernandes”?).
The third line appears to read “799259 4A”.
The fourth line appears to read “oaxaca”.
The fifth line appears to read “3761960”.

Underneath the fifth line, there is printed text that reads
“FECHA
By
THE GIDEONS INTERNATIONAL
2900 LEBANON ROAD
NASHVILLE, TENNESSE 37214
U.S.A
www.gideons.org”

Below is more information as well as some of my thoughts on the Bible.

 

First: “2930 the old Road Castiac CA 91384 NCCF” appears to refer to the North County Correctional Facility which is a county jail and one of four hails within the Pitchess Detention Center. This center is located at 29340 The Old Road, Castaic, California. The zip code is 91384. NamUs notes that this handwriting says “2930 The (illegible) Race…” but when reading it myself it appears to possibly be “the old Road” which matches up with the rest of the address. Was he at some point at this location, possibly an inmate or seeing a friend or family member there?

Second: The Gideons International is a church with headquarters in Nashville, Tennessee. They distribute free copies of bibles in numerous languages. They are known for placing many of these bibles in hotel rooms, as well as hospitals, prisons, schools, etc. There is a chance that this Doe was at a hotel or other institution and that is where he acquired this Bible, or someone else got it from a hotel or other institution and then gave it to this Doe, or he somehow encountered someone else that was part of the Gideons International that gave him a copy. I am leaning more towards another institution other than a hotel as I feel most hotels in the U.S. would have English bibles in the rooms, but I am not sure in the area he was discovered, if they sometimes put Spanish or both English and Spanish versions in rooms. Could he have acquired it from the county jail (mentioned previously), or someone he met or knew acquired it from there and gave it to him?

Third: NamUs states that a handwritten line reads “Oxacai:” but when reading it myself it appears to read “oaxaca", which is a state in Mexico (the capital city of Oaxaca, Oaxaca de Juárez, is often simply referred to as Oaxaca as well). It looks like a small box was drawn around the “o”, possibly just doodling when writing as there appears to be a small doodle(?) above the “o” as well.

CLOTHING/ITEMS – Near the body, the following was noted

• Denim blue jeans with thigh pocket; lower pant legs are attached but can zip off (Brand “One Tuff Brand” (OTB); size “33 Waist, 32 Length”)
• Black shoe(s) with metal buckle (Not listed on items found but a photo of one is included on NamUs; unsure if one or two shoes were found) (No brand or size noted)
• Metal wristwatch with analog face and leather wristband (Brand “Mossimo”)
• Two stiff fabric items both measuring 6 inches (15.24 cm) long by ⅜ (0.375) inch (0.9525 cm ) wide; both have a loop at one end and 3 ½ inches (8.89 cm) of loose frilly string at the other end; one is yellow and blue and inscribed with the sewn-one name “Rodolfo”; the other is red, green, and yellow, and had the sewn-on name “Josefina”.
• Small piece of paper with “0446646717695 Lupita” (or “Lupitia”) handwritten on it
• Colour photograph (1 ½ inches by ⅞ (0.875) inch (3.81 by 2.2225 cm)) of a woman posing on a sidewalk. She appears to have long hair and is wearing a white sleeveless top and blue jeans.
• Spanish Bible which appears to be from “The Gideons International” church in Nashville, Tennessee. There is handwritten text (in pencil) on some pages, including: “2930 The (illegible) Race Castiac CA 91384 NCCF”, “765997”, “Raymundo Hernandez” (or possibly “Hernandes”), “799259 4A”, “oaxaca", and “3761960”.

IDENTIFIERS – I could not find any information regarding identifiers

• Dentals: Unknown
• Fingerprints: Unknown
• DNA: Unknown

 

INVESTIGATING AGENCY & OTHER CASE INFORMATION

AGENCY ONE

• Agency Name: San Diego County Medical Examiner’s office
• Agency Contact Person: Tessa Lee (Medical Examiner Investigator III)
• Agency Phone Number: 858-694-2895
• Agency Case Number: 04-00383

OTHER INFORMATION/CASE NUMBERS

• NamUs Case Number: #UP55722

 

REFERENCES

• NamUs (#UP55722)

 

Three Points John Doe (October 28, 2007)

• DATE OF DISCOVERY: October 28^(th), 2007

• LOCATION OF DISCOVERY^(1)****: Three Points, Pima County, Arizona, 85629, USA (31°58'45.4"N 111°11'28.7"W (31.979267, -111.191317))

• ESTIMATED YEAR OF DEATH: 2007

• POSTMORTEM INTERVAL: Months (Human Borders notes “< 6 – 8 months”; DoeNetwork notes “4 to 8 months”)

• CONDITION OF REMAINS: Not recognizable – Partial skeletal parts only

• CAUSE OF DEATH: Probable exposure (Humane Borders)

• SEX: Male

• ESTIMATED AGE: 17 – 21 years old

• RACE: Hispanic

• WEIGHT: Cannot estimate

• HEIGHT (ESTIMATED): 5’2” (62 inches; 157.48 cm)

• EYE COLOUR: Unknown

• HAIR: Unknown

• DISTINGUISHING MARKS/FEATURES:  None stated

 

BACKGROUND

On October 28^(th), 2007, skeletal remains of a male were discovered near Three Points, Arizona, “…in a desert area known for migrant activity.” NamUs notes a postmortem interval of “Months”, DoeNetwork notes “4 to 8 months” and Human Borders notes “< 6 – 8 months”.

The remains were determined to belong to a Hispanic male between 17 to 21 years of age. He stood around 5’2” (62 inches; 157.48 cm) in height. His weight, eye colour, and hair colour could not be determined.

He was discovered wearing a black World Series Champions 2003 baseball t-shirt that says “2003 WORLD SERIIES” “Champions” WORLD SERIES 100^(th) ANNIVERSARY 2003” “FLORIDA MARLINS MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL”, a white tank top, two pairs of blue jeans, and one black sock. A white and blue striped handkerchief was also found on the body.

Items discovered near the body included one brown boot, one black leather belt with a metal buckle, and a plastic keychain with an enclosed photograph of a possible teenage girl. There is a high possibility that the person in the photo is a loved one or close friend to the Doe.

(*Currently, I am focusing mostly on cases of migrants who passed when crossing the Mexico-United States border. A lot of these cases have very little information provided.*)

 

CLOTHING/ITEMS – On the body, the following was noted

• Black t-shirt which has a graphic of a baseball and says, “WORLD SERIES 100^(th) ANNIVERSARY 2003” “2003 WORLD SERIES” “Champions” “FLORIDA MARLINS MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL” (Brand “Delta Pro Weight”; size “M”)
• White tank top (No brand or size noted)
• Blue jeans (Brand “Jingo Jeans”, size unknown) Blue jeans (Brand “Lee”, size “30”)
• White and blue striped handkerchief
• One black sock (No brand or size noted)
• One brown boot (Brand “Mack”; size unknown)

 

Near the body, the following was noted

• Plastic keychain with enclosed photograph
• Black leather band with metal buckle (Brand “Nike”; no size noted)

 

NOTES – Things to note or discrepancies found during research

• ^(1) LOCATION OF DISCOVERY – NamUs lists coordinates that lead to Florence, Arizona but notes the location of discovery as near Three Points. It seems to be one digit off of the coordinates given on the Humane Borders map, which is in fact near Three Points, so I believe those are the correct coordinates.

 

IDENTIFIERS

• Dentals: Available
• Fingerprints: Not available
• DNA: Available

 

INVESTIGATING AGENCY & OTHER CASE INFORMATION

AGENCY ONE

• Agency Name: Pima County Sheriff's Office
• Agency Phone Number: 520-351-4600
• Agency Case Number: 07 10 28 161

AGENCY TWO

• Agency Name: Pima County Medical Examiner’s Office
• Agency Contact Person: Bruce Anderson (Forensic Anthropologist)
• Agency Phone Number: 520-724-8600
• Agency Case Number: ML 07-01995

OTHER INFORMATION/CASE NUMBERS

• NamUs Case Number: #UP5340
• NCMEC Case Number: 1184121
• DoeNetwork Case Number: 2777UMAZ

 

REFERENCES

• NamUs (#UP5340)
• Humane Borders – Arizona OpenGIS Initiative for Deceased Migrants (ML 07-01995)
• DoeNetwork (2777UMAZ)
• NCMEC (1184121)

Ocotillo John Doe (October 2, 2003)

• DATE OF DISCOVERY: October 2^(nd), 2003

• LOCATION OF DISCOVERY: Ocotillo, Imperial County, California, 99259, USA (32°41'49.7"N 116°02'58.4"W (32.697140, -116.049550))

• ESTIMATED YEAR OF DEATH: 2003

• POSTMORTEM INTERVAL: 1 month

• CONDITION OF REMAINS: Not recognizable – Partial skeletal parts only

• CAUSE OF DEATH: Not stated/Unknown

• SEX: Male

• ESTIMATED AGE^(1)****: 20 – 40 years old

• RACE: Hispanic / Caucasian

• WEIGHT: Cannot estimate

• HEIGHT (ESTIMATED): 5’4” (64 inches; 162.56 cm)

• EYE COLOUR: Unknown

• HAIR: Unknown

• DISTINGUISHING MARKS/FEATURES:  None noted

 

BACKGROUND

On October 2^(nd), 2003, human remains were discovered in the Ocotillo Mountains near Kumeyaay Highway/Interstate 8, West of Ocotillo, California. It is believed that the person had been deceased for 1 month prior to discovery.

The individual is believed to be a Hispanic and/or Caucasian male between 20 to 40 years of age. He stood at approximately 5’4” (64 inches; 162.56 cm) in height. His weight, eye colour, and hair colour could not be determined.

On the body, size 8 “Establo” brand ankle work boots and white socks with blue toe and heel patches were found. Near the body, size 34x31 “Levi’s” brand jeans, a size 38 tan Ostrich skin style belt, size 8 “ESTABIO” brand ankle work boots, white socks with blue toe and heel patches, and a “NIKE” brand tan cap/hat for the “Lakers” NBA basketball team were found.

A wallet was also found near the body, which had the name “AVILA-TORRES” and possibly the word “RANA” carved into it. It contained photos of possible family members of the Doe. Descriptions of these photos include:

• One appears to be of a young boy with short, dark hair. He is wearing a white shirt and is posing in front of a blue backdrop. It reminds me a school photo.
• One appears to be of a young girl with dark hair that is pulled back into a ponytail with a white scrunchie hair tie. She is wearing a white dress and is posing next to a newborn baby girl with dark hair who is wearing a white dress, white headband, and white shoes. They are in front of a Winnie-the-Pooh backdrop.
• One appears to be of a woman with long, dark hair. She may be wearing lipstick and may have a small mole/birthmark on one cheek near her nose. She is with a young child (possibly a girl) who has long, dark hair. They are both smiling for the camera. They may be inside, possibly on plaid a couch or chair.

Also, within the wallet, a business card (or cards) was discovered which reads “GARDENING MAINTENANCE SERVICE” and has the name “DOMINGO ROMAIN” with “OWNER & MANAGER” underneath, a telephone number “TEL: (213) 381-7814” and an address “133 N. RENO ST. #104 Los Angeles, CA 90026” on it. NamUs states “…there was a business card…” but in the photo of the card it looks like there are possibly multiple of them? I attempted to find information on this business or the owner, but could not find anything solid.

(*Currently, I am focusing mostly on cases of migrants who passed when crossing the Mexico-United States border. A lot of these cases have very little information provided.*)

 

CLOTHING/ITEMS – On the body, the following was noted

• Ankle work boots (Brand “Establo”; size “8”)
• White socks with blue toe and heel patches (No brand or size noted)

 

Near the body, the following was noted

• Jeans (Brand “Levi’s”; size “34x31”)
• Tan Ostrich skin style belt (No brand noted; size “38”)
• Tan hat/cap for the “Lakers” NBA basketball team (Brand “NIKE”)
• Wallet with the name “AVILA-TORRES” and possible the word “RANA” carved into. It contained possible family photos and a business card for “GARDENING MAINTENANCE SERVICE”
• Some sort of plaid shirt/fabric can be seen in some of the photos provided on NamUs but is not mentioned otherwise

 

NOTES – Things to note or discrepancies found during research

• ^(1) ESTIMATED AGE – Under “Estimated Age Range (Years)” NamUs notes “20-40”, while in the “Circumstances of Discovery” NamUs notes “30s-40s”.

IDENTIFIERS

• Dentals: Unknown
• Fingerprints: Unknown
• DNA: Unknown

 

INVESTIGATING AGENCY & OTHER CASE INFORMATION

AGENCY ONE

• Agency Name: Imperial County Coroner’s Office
• Agency Phone Number: 442-265-2105
• Agency Case Number: 03-186

OTHER INFORMATION/CASE NUMBERS

• NamUs Case Number: #UP13207
• DoeNetwork Case Number: 4763UMCA

 

REFERENCES

• NamUs (#UP13207)
• DoeNetwork (4763UMCA)

(IMAGE: Photo from NamUs of the gold/yellow metal necklace with a gold/yellow metal pendant of the Grim Reaper holding a scythe)

Brownsville John Doe (June 18, 2024)

• DATE OF DISCOVERY: June 18^(th), 2024

• LOCATION OF DISCOVERY: Brownsville, Cameron County, Texas, 78520, USA

• ESTIMATED YEAR OF DEATH: 2024

• POSTMORTEM INTERVAL: 5 days

• CONDITION OF REMAINS: Not recognizable – Decomposing/putrefaction

• CAUSE OF DEATH: Not stated/Unknown

• SEX: Male

• ESTIMATED AGE GROUP: Adult – Pre 50

• RACE: Hispanic

• WEIGHT (ESTIMATED): 160 pounds (72.5748 kg)

• HEIGHT (MEASURED): 5’8” (68 inches; 172.72 cm)

• EYE COLOUR: Brown

• HAIR: Black (0.25/¼ inches (0.635 cm) long)

• DISTINGUISHING MARKS/FEATURES: Multiple tattoos, including –

  • RIGHT UPPER CHEST: AH (x10), Grouping, not linear
  • LEFT UPPER CHEST: “24-09-16”
  • ABDOMEN: “A L J A”
  • RIGHT UPPER ARM (LATERAL ASPECT): Smiling (Devil) face with horns
  • LEFT FOREARM (VENTRAL ASPECT): Trident symbol
  • LEFT HAND (WEBBING BETWEEN THUMB AND FOREFINGER): Three dots
  • RIGHT LOWER LEG (LATERAL ASPECT): Grim Reaper with a scythe with “Te Amo” beneath
  • RIGHT LOWER LEG (MEDIAL ASPECT): Grim Reaper with “Jesus” beneath
  • LEFT LOWER LEFT (MEDIAL ASPECT): Lisa Simpson holding an ice cream come with the apparent letter “F” and the inscription “CUY” beneath

 

BACKGROUND

On June 18^(th), 2024, the body of a Hispanic male was “…recovered by Border Patrol in Brownsville, Texas.” (NamUs) It is believed that he had been deceased approximately 5 days.

NamUs does not give an age range but does note an age group of Adult – Pre 50. He weighed approximately 160 pounds and stood at 5’8” (68 inches; 172.72 cm) in height. He had brown eyes and black hair that was 0.25/¼ inches (0.635 cm) long.

He had multiple tattoos, including:

• "AH (x10), Grouping, non linear” on his right upper chest
• The date “24-09-16” on his left upper chest
• The letters “A L J A” on his abdomen
• A smiling face (Devil) with horns on his right upper arm
• A trident symbol on his left forearm
• Three (3) dots on the webbing between his thumb and forefinger on his left hang
• The Grim Reaper holding a scythe with “Te Amo” beneath on his right lower leg (lateral aspect (outer leg/away the midline of the body))
• The Grim Reaper with “Jesus” beneath on his right lower leg (medial aspect (inner leg/towards the midline of the body))
• Lisa Simpson holding an ice cream cone with the apparent letter “F” and the letters “CUY” beneath on his left lower leg (medial aspect (inner leg/towards the midline of the body))

His NamUs profile only had photos of the smiling face (Devil) tattoo and the Grim Reaper tattoo with “Te Amos” beneath. The first tattoo mentioned of the nonlinear “AH” makes me think of The Joker tattoos that people get that will have groups of “HA” repeated and sort of randomly positioned. I wish there was a photo of that tattoo available to confirm or deny this suspicion.

The man was found wearing a red short-sleeved plaid shirt, a red short-sleeved t-shirt, blue denim jeans, and black underwear. A gold/yellow metal necklace with a gold/yellow metal pendant of the Grim Reaper holding a scythe was also discovered.

(*Currently, I am focusing mostly on cases of migrants who passed when crossing the Mexico-United States border. A lot of these cases have very little information provided.*)

CLOTHING/ITEMS – On the body, the following was noted

• Red short-sleeved plaid shirt (No brand or size noted)
• Red short-sleeved t-shirt (No brand or size noted)
• Blue denim jeans (No brand or size noted)
• Black underwear (No brand or size noted)
• Gold/yellow metal necklace with a gold/yellow metal pendant of the Grim Reaper holding a scythe (Not listed under the items found but an image is included of it on NamUs)

 

IDENTIFIERS – I could not find any information regarding identifiers

• Dentals: Unknown
• Fingerprints: Unknown
• DNA: Unknown

 

INVESTIGATING AGENCY & OTHER CASE INFORMATION

AGENCY ONE

• Agency Name: Brownsville Police Department
• Agency Phone Number: 956-548-7000
• Agency Case Number: 2024-06170145

OTHER INFORMATION/CASE NUMBERS

• ME/C Case Number: OA24-083
• NamUs Case Number: #UP127601

 

REFERENCES

• NamUs (#UP127601) (*WARNING: POSTMORTEM PHOTOS*)

Green Valley Jane Doe/”Areli Gomez Gomez” (July 2009)

• DATE OF DISCOVERY: July 13^(th), 2009

• LOCATION OF DISCOVERY: Green Valley, Pima County, Arizona, 85614, USA (31°48'11.9"N 111°05'40.2"W (31.803300, -111.094500))

• ESTIMATED YEAR OF DEATH: 2009

• POSTMORTEM INTERVAL: NCMEC notes “It is believed she had been deceased for a few weeks.” while Humane Borders notes "< 1 day"

• CONDITION OF REMAINS: Humane Borders notes "Fully fleshed" while NamUs notes "Not recognizable – Decomposing/putrefaction" (Looking at her postmortem image, she would be recognizable to those who knew her)

• CAUSE OF DEATH: Humane Borders notes "Exposure" "Probable hyperthermia"

• SEX: Female

• ESTIMATED AGE: 15 – 21 years old

• RACE: Hispanic

• WEIGHT: (MEASURED) 98 pounds (44.4521 kg)

• HEIGHT (MEASURED): 5’0” (60 inches; 152.4 cm)

• EYE COLOUR: Unknown

• HAIR: “Not mentioned within autopsy, but probably brown hair.” (NamUs)

• DISTINGUISHING MARKS/FEATURES:  

  • Small scar and freckle next to right eye

 

BACKGROUND

On July 13^(th), 2009, the body of a Hispanic female was discovered along a desert trail “…near Gasline Road, north of Calle Tres…” (NCMEC) in Green Valley, Arizona.

The Jane Doe is believed to have been between 15 to 21 years of age. She weighed 98 pounds (44.4521 kg) and stood at 5’0” (60 inches; 152.4 cm) in height. She possibly had brown hair. Her eye colour could not be determined.

She was found wearing a “Converse” brand black hooded zip jacket/sweatshirt with graphic of a Converse shoe, “Converse” underneath the shoe, and the saying “all stars” repeating behind, blue jeans, a black cloth belt with a white metal buckle, black and white sneakers (possibly “DC” brand or offbrand as most actual DC shoes have something written/embroidered on the tongu; Rob Dyrdrek “RD” style), a white bra, and black underwear.

A bus ticket was also found with her which was dated “03-07-09” and the name “Areli Gomez Gomez” written on it.

(*Currently, I am focusing mostly on cases of migrants who passed when crossing the Mexico-United States border. A lot of these cases have very little information provided.*)

 

CLOTHING/ITEMS – On the body, the following was noted

• Black hooded zip jacket/sweatshirt with graphic of a Converse shoe, “Converse” underneath the shoe, and the saying “all stars” repeating behind (Brand “Converse”; no size noted)
• Blue jeans (No brand or size noted)
• Black cloth belt with white metal buckle (No brand or size noted)
• Black and white sneakers (Possibly “DC” brand or offbrand, Rob Dyrdrk “RD” style) (These are not noted under items found but a photo of them is included on NamUs)
• White bra (No brand or size noted)
• Black underwear (No brand or size noted)

Near the body, the following was noted

Transportation (bus) ticket from Chiapas to Tijuana with the name “Areli Gomez Gomez” and the date “03-07-09” written on it

IDENTIFIERS

• Dentals: Available (“X-rays and photographs are available. Bilateral absence” (DoeNetwork))
• Fingerprints: Available
• DNA: Available

 

INVESTIGATING AGENCY & OTHER CASE INFORMATION

AGENCY ONE

• Agency Name: Pima County Sheriff's Department
• Agency Phone Number: 520-351-4600
• Agency Case Number: 09 07 13 35

AGENCY TWO

• Agency Name: Pima County Medical Examiner’s Office
• Agency Contact Person: Bruce Anderson (Forensic Anthropologist)
• Agency Phone Number: 520-724-8600
• Agency Case Number: ML 09-01412

OTHER INFORMATION/CASE NUMBERS

• NamUs Case Number: #UP6412
• NCMEC Case Number: 1184090
• DoeNetwork Case Number: 1189UFAZ
• Former Hot Case Number: 2372

 

REFERENCES

• NamUs (#UP6412) (*WARNING: POSTMORTEM PHOTOS*)
• NCMEC (1184090)
• DoeNetwork (1189UFAZ)
• Humane Borders - Arizona OpenGIS Initiative for Deceased Migrants (ML 09-01412))
• I also uploaded this write up to my website (Unidentified and Missing)

UPDATED (13 May 2026 (5:59 p.m., AEST)) I have updated the "Postmortem Interval", "Condition of Remains" and "Cause of Death" sections to reflect information gathered from the Humane Borders map, which has also been added to the references.

Dulzura John Doe (September 5, 2022)

• DATE OF DISCOVERY: September 5^(th), 2022

• LOCATION OF DISCOVERY: Dulzura, San Diego County, California, USA (32°35’12.0”N 116°50’52.2”W (32.586667, -116.847833))

• ESTIMATED YEAR OF DEATH: 2022

• POSTMORTEM INTERVAL: Not stated/Unknown

• CONDITION OF REMAINS: Not recognizable – Insect/animal activity

• CAUSE OF DEATH: Not stated/Unknown

• SEX: Male

• ESTIMATED AGE: 25 – 35 years old

• RACE: Hispanic

• WEIGHT (MEASURED): 122 pounds (55.3383 kg)

• HEIGHT (MEASURED): 5’9” (69 inches; 175.26 cm)

• EYE COLOUR: Unknown

• HAIR: Unknown

• DISTINGUISHING MARKS/FEATURES:  None stated

 

BACKGROUND

On September 5^(th), 2022, Border patrol agents discovered human remains on a hillside in the Otay Mountain area of Dulzura, California.

The remains are believed to belong to a Hispanic male between 25 to 35 years old. He weighed 122 pounds (55.3383 kilograms) and stood at 5’9” in height (69 inches / 175.26 centimetres).

He was found wearing a black shirt, a black sweater, black pants, a black belt, underwear, white shoes, black socks, and a backpack.

He was also found with a bright blue notebook that had a sticker in one corner that read “Roca”, a small book (it looks possibly like a Bible to me) with a brown leather cover that zipped closed and had a zip pocket, a black lanyard with one silver key, and a black micro-USB to TRS (3.5 mm jack) and USB-A cord.

In the Circumstances of Recovery section of his NamUs profile, it states that he may have “…been associated with or stopped at the Iglesia Apostólica De La Fe En Cristo Jesus, A.R. in Tijuana, Mexico during his journey to the United States.” Iglesia Apostólica De La Fe En Cristo Jesus (IAFCJ) is a Oneness Pentecostal Church founded in Mexico. They have many locations in Mexico as well as the United States, with a U.S. headquarters located in San Bernardino, California. I am unsure why authorities believe this, but my guess is he had a card, sticker, or written note with the churches name and/or address in his belongings.

(*Currently, I am focusing mostly on cases of migrants who passed when crossing the Mexico-United States border. A lot of these cases have very little information provided.*)

(I want to just note quickly that I have a Facebook account and a Website where I also post my writeups in hopes to further spread information about these cases.)

CLOTHING/ITEMS – On the body, the following was noted

• Black shirt (No brand or size noted)
• Black sweater (No brand or size noted)
• Underwear (No colour, brand, or size noted)
• Black belt (No brand or size noted)
• Two white shoes (No brand or size noted)
• Two black socks (No brand or size noted)
• Backpack (No colour or brand noted)
• Small book (possibly a Bible) with a brown leather cover that zips closed and had a zip pocket (This is not on the list of items found but is in photos on NamUs)
• One black lanyard with one silver key (This is not on the list of items found but is in photos on NamUs)
• One black cord – micro-USB to TRS (3.5 mm jack) and USB-A (This is not on the list of items found but is in photos on NamUs)
• One bright blue notebook with a small sticker in one corner that reads “Roca” (This is not on the list of items found but is in photos on NamUs)

 

IDENTIFIERS – I could not find any information regarding identifiers

• Dentals: Unknown
• Fingerprints: Unknown
• DNA: Unknown

 

INVESTIGATING AGENCY & OTHER CASE INFORMATION

AGENCY ONE

• Agency Name: San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office
• Agency Contact Person: Kathy On (Medical Examiner Investigator)
• Agency Phone Number: 858-694-2895
• Agency Case Number: 2022-02969

AGENCY TWO

• Agency Name: San Diego Sheriff’s Department
• Agency Phone Number: 858-565-5200

OTHER INFORMATION/CASE NUMBERS

• NamUs Case Number: #UP96389

 

REFERENCES

• NamUs (#UP96389)

Little Tucson/Ali Chukson John Doe (November 23, 2012)

• DATE OF DISCOVERY: November 23^(rd), 2012

• LOCATION OF DISCOVERY^(1)****: Ali Chukson, Pima County, Arizona, 85634, USA (31°53’43.5”N 112°46’40.6”W (31.895416, -111.777950))

• ESTIMATED YEAR OF DEATH: 2011 – 2012

• POSTMORTEM INTERVAL: Months

• CONDITION OF REMAINS: Not recognizable – Partial skeletal parts only

• CAUSE OF DEATH: Not stated/Unknown

• SEX: Male

• ESTIMATED AGE: 13 – 18 years old

• RACE: Hispanic

• WEIGHT: Cannot estimate

• HEIGHT: Cannot estimate

• EYE COLOUR: Unknown

• HAIR: Unknown

• DISTINGUISHING MARKS/FEATURES:  None stated

 

BACKGROUND

On November 23^(rd), 2012, a human cranium was discovered in the desert near Old Topana Road, 3 miles south of Ali Chukson (Little Tucson), Arizona.

I would just like to note since I was confused at first (though please correct me if I'm wrong!): "Ali Chukson" (O'odham: ʼAli Cuk Ṣon) means "Little Tucson" in the O'odham language, which is why the location of Ali Chukson (and the Doe) is referred to as Little Tucson or Little Tucson Village.

It is believed the remains belonged to a Hispanic male between 13 to 18 years old. His weight, height, eye colour, and hair colour could not be determined. “It is suspected he had been deceased for several months and may have died as early as 2011.” (NCMEC)

(*Currently, I am focusing mostly on cases of migrants who passed when crossing the Mexico-United States border. A lot of these cases have very little information provided.*)

 

NOTES – Things to note or discrepancies found during research

• ^(1) LOCATION OF DISCOVERY – NamUs and NCMEC state that he was discovered in Little Tucson (Ali Chukson), but searching the coordinates says that it is in Ali Molina, but if you search the road that he was found very close to, it says it is located in Sells. I just wanted to note this. I am not from the area so this may have an explanation that I am not aware of.

IDENTIFIERS – I could not find any information regarding identifiers

• Dentals: Unknown
• Fingerprints: Unknown
• DNA: Unknown

 

INVESTIGATING AGENCY & OTHER CASE INFORMATION

AGENCY ONE

• Agency Name: Tohono O’odham Nation Police Department
• Agency Phone Number: 520-383-3275
• Agency Case Number: 121123090

AGENCY TWO

• Agency Name: Pima County Medical Examiner’s Office
• Agency Contact Person: Bruce Anderson (Forensic Anthropologist)
• Agency Phone Number: 520-724-8600
• Agency Case Number: ML 13-00429

OTHER INFORMATION/CASE NUMBERS

• NCMEC Case Number: 1250497
• NamUs Case Number: #UP11081

 

REFERENCES

• NamUs (#UP11081)
• NCMEC (1250497)
• Humane Borders - Arizona OpenGIS Initiative for Deceased Migrants (ML 13-00429)

 

Ajo John Doe (November 18, 2011)

• DATE OF DISCOVERY: November 18^(th), 2011

• LOCATION OF DISCOVERY: Ajo, Pima County, Arizona, 85321, USA (32°23’03.3”N 112°46’33.3”W (32.384250, -112.775917))

• ESTIMATED YEAR OF DEATH: 2010 – 2011

• POSTMORTEM INTERVAL^(1)****: 2 months – 1 year

• CONDITION OF REMAINS: Not recognizable – Partial skeletal parts only

• CAUSE OF DEATH: Not stated/Unknown

• SEX: Male

• ESTIMATED AGE^(2)****: 15 – 25 years old

• RACE: Hispanic

• WEIGHT: Cannot estimate

• HEIGHT: Cannot estimate

• EYE COLOUR: Unknown

• HAIR: Unknown

• DISTINGUISHING MARKS/FEATURES:  None stated

 

BACKGROUND

On November 18^(th), 2011, a human cranium was discovered in the desert near Pipeline Road in Ajo, Arizona. According to NamUs: “Cranium found in wash near Ajo, Arizona. No other remains or personal property found.”

It is believed the remains belonged to a Hispanic male between 15 to 25 years old. His weight, height, eye colour, and hair colour could not be determined.

(*Currently, I am focusing mostly on cases of migrants who passed when crossing the Mexico-United States border. A lot of these cases have very little information provided.*)

 

NOTES – Things of note or discrepancies found during research

• ^(1) POSTMORTEM INTERVAL – NamUs just notes “Months” while NCMEC notes “between 2 months and 1 year”. Humane Borders OpenGIS notes "< 3 months" for the postmortem interval.
• ^(2) ESTIMATED AGE – NamUs notes 15 to 25, and under “Estimated Age” on NCMEC it also notes 15 to 25, but in the NCMEC description they note “between 15 and 18 years of age.”

 

IDENTIFIERS – I could not find any information regarding identifiers

• Dentals: Unknown
• Fingerprints: Unknown
• DNA: Unknown

 

INVESTIGATING AGENCY & OTHER CASE INFORMATION

AGENCY ONE

• Agency Name: Pima County Sheriff’s Department
• Agency Phone Number: 520-351-4600
• Agency Case Number: 111118187

AGENCY TWO

• Agency Name: Pima County Medical Examiner’s Office
• Agency Contact Person: Bruce Anderson (Forensic Anthropologist)
• Agency Phone Number: 520-724-8600
• Agency Case Number: ML 11-02288

OTHER INFORMATION/CASE NUMBERS

• NCMEC Case Number: 1250498
• NamUs Case Number: #UP10098

 

REFERENCES

• NCMEC (1250498)
• NamUs (#UP10098)
• Humane Borders - Arizona OpenGIS Initiative for Deceased Migrants (ML 11-02288)

Gila Bend John Doe (November 13, 2025)

• DATE OF DISCOVERY: November 13^(th), 2025

• LOCATION OF DISCOVERY: Gila Bend, Maricopa County, Arizona, 85337, USA (32°48’37.8”N 112°36’51.0”W (32 48.632, -112 36.850))

• ESTIMATED YEAR OF DEATH: Not stated/Unknown

• POSTMORTEM INTERVAL: Not stated/Unknown

• CONDITION OF REMAINS: Not recognizable – Partial skeletal parts only (cranium only, no mandible)

• CAUSE OF DEATH: Not stated/Unknown

• SEX: Male

• ESTIMATED AGE: 20 – 40 years old

• RACE: Hispanic

• WEIGHT: Cannot estimate

• HEIGHT: Cannot estimate

• EYE COLOUR: Unknown

• HAIR: Unknown

• DISTINGUISHING MARKS/FEATURES:  None stated

 

BACKGROUND

On November 13^(th), 2025, a human cranium (with no mandible) was discovered in the desert in Gila Bend, Arizona, “…which is a known migrant crossing area.” (NamUs)

The victim is believed to be a Hispanic male aged between 20 to 40 years old. His weight, height, eye colour, and hair colour could not be determined.

As per the Maricopa County Medical Examiner: “Postmortem dental radiographs available. DNA will be entered into CODIS.”

(*I will be doing a lot of cases of Doe’s who likely passed when crossing the Mexico-United States border. A lot of these cases have very little information provided.*)

 

IDENTIFIERS

• Dentals: Available (“Postmortem dental radiographs available”)
• Fingerprints: Unknown
• DNA: Available (“DNA will be entered into CODIS”)

 

INVESTIGATING AGENCY & OTHER CASE INFORMATION

AGENCY ONE

• Agency Name: Maricopa County Office of the Medical Examiner
• Agency Contact Person: Christen Eggers, Sr. (Medicolegal Death Investigator)
• Agency Phone Number: 602-506-3322
• Agency Case Number: 25-12328

OTHER INFORMATION/CASE NUMBERS

• NamUs Case Number: #UP153450

 

REFERENCES

• NamUs (#UP153450)
• Maricopa County Office of the Medical Examiner - Unidentified Persons Bureau (2025-12328)

Santa Teresa Jane Doe (April 28, 2025)

• DATE OF DISCOVERY: April 28^(th), 2025

• LOCATION OF DISCOVERY: Santa Teresa, Doña Ana County, New Mexico, 88008, USA (31°50’14.5”N 106°59’57.8”W (31.83736, -106.9994))

• ESTIMATED YEAR OF DEATH: Not stated/Unknown

• POSTMORTEM INTERVAL: Not stated/Unknown

• CONDITION OF REMAINS: Not recognizable – Partial skeletal parts only

• CAUSE OF DEATH: Not stated/Unknown

• SEX: Female

• ESTIMATED AGE: 17 – 21 years old

• RACE: Hispanic / Asian / Native American

• WEIGHT: Cannot estimate

• HEIGHT (ESTIMATED): 4’9” – 5’4” (57 – 64 inches; 144.78 - 162.56 cm)

• EYE COLOUR: Unknown

• HAIR: Unknown

• DISTINGUISHING MARKS/FEATURES:  None stated

 

BACKGROUND

On April 28^(th), 2025, the Battalion Search and Rescue group discovered partial skeletal remains in the desert between Highway 9 and Cross Tie Road in Santa Teresa, New Mexico. The Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office were alerted of this discovery “…and provided coordinates to the remains.” (NamUS)

The victim is believed to be a Hispanic, Asian, or Native American female between 17 to 21 years old. She stood between 4’9” to 5’4” in height. Her weight, eye colour, and hair colour could not be determined.

Near her remains, light coloured pants were discovered. These were by the brand “Cuidado con el Perro”, and were “MEX size 5” / “US size 2”.

This woman was most likely migrating across the Mexico-United States border when she passed. Sadly, there is not much information regarding this doe or her case.

(*I will be doing a lot of cases of Doe’s who likely passed when crossing the Mexico-United States border. A lot of these cases have very little information provided.*)

 

CLOTHING/ITEMS – Near the body, the following was noted

• Light coloured pants (Brand “Cuidado con el Perro”; size “MEX 5” / “US 2”)

 

IDENTIFIERS – I could not find any information regarding identifiers

• Dentals: Unknown
• Fingerprints: Unknown
• DNA: Unknown

 

INVESTIGATING AGENCY & OTHER CASE INFORMATION

AGENCY ONE

• Agency Name: New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator
• Agency Phone Number: 505-272-3053
• Agency Case Number: 2025-03272

AGENCY TWO

• Agency Name: Doña Ana County Sheriff's Office
• Agency Phone Number: 575-525-1911

OTHER INFORMATION/CASE NUMBERS

• NamUs Case Number: #UP146853

 

REFERENCES

• NamUs (#UP146853)

Ajo John Doe (February 2025)

• DATE OF DISCOVERY^(1)****: February 12^(th), 2025

• LOCATION OF DISCOVERY^(2)****: Ajo, Pima County, Arizona, USA (32°18’58.7”N 113°07’50.1”W (32.316303, -113.130572))

• ESTIMATED YEAR OF DEATH: 2010 – 2023

• POSTMORTEM INTERVAL: Approximately 2 – 15 years

• CONDITION OF REMAINS: Not recognizable – Partial skeletal parts only

• CAUSE OF DEATH: Not stated/Unknown

• SEX: Male

• ESTIMATED AGE GROUP: Adult – Pre 60

• RACE: Uncertain

• WEIGHT: Cannot estimate

• HEIGHT: Cannot estimate

• EYE COLOUR: Unknown

• HAIR: Unknown

• DISTINGUISHING MARKS/FEATURES:  

  • Missing first molars on right and left side of lower jaw

 

BACKGROUND

On February 12^(th), 2025, partial skeletal remains were found in the remote desert West of Ajo, Arizona.

NamUs states “Skeletal elements were discovered in a remote desert location by private citizens (USBP)”

Authorities believe that the remains had been at that location for 2 to 15 years prior to discovery.

The victim is believed to be an adult (pre 60 years old) Hispanic male. Due to the condition of his remains, his race, weight, height, eye colour, and hair colour could not be determined. He was missing the first molars on the right and left side of his lower jaw.

Nearby, a red collared sweater with snap buttons “to be worn down or snapped up as a turtleneck”, white tennis shoes/sneakers, and a gray blanket with stripes were found.

Sadly, there is not much information regarding this Doe or his case. 

CLOTHING/ITEMS – Near the body, the following was noted

• Red collared sweater with snap buttons “to be worn down or snapped up as a turtleneck” (Brand “Banana Republic”; size “Large”)
• White tennis shoes/sneakers (Brand “U.S. Polo Assn.”; size “US Mens 8”)
• Gray blanket with stripes

 

NOTES – Things to note or discrepancies found during research

• ^(1) DATE OF DISCOVERY – NamUs notes the date of discovery as February 12^(th), 2025, while the Arizona OpenGIS Initiative for Deceased Migrants map notes the reporting date as February 8^(th), 2025.
• ^(2) LOCATION OF DISCOVERY – NamUs notes the Location as “W of Ajo”. I just wanted to note this.

 

IDENTIFIERS – I could not find any information regarding identifiers

• Dentals: Unknown
• Fingerprints: Unknown
• DNA: Unknown

 

INVESTIGATING AGENCY & OTHER CASE INFORMATION

AGENCY ONE

• Agency Name: Pima County Medical Examiner’s Office
• Agency Phone Number: 520-724-8600
• Agency Case Number: 25-0640

AGENCY TWO

• Agency Name: Pima County Sheriff’s Department
• Agency Phone Number: 520-351-4600
• Agency Case Number: 250212239

OTHER INFORMATION/CASE NUMBERS

• NamUs Case Number: #UP148666

 

REFERENCES

• NamUs (#UP148666)
• Arizona OpenGIS Initiative for Deceased Migrants (ML 25-0640)

Hi all, (I hope this is okay to post again)

Some may have seen my previous posts about Marcelino (previously known as 'La Habra Heights John Doe (January 2026)' and how a family friend of his saw my post on here and a Facebook post and recognized him as Marcelino. I am unsure when exactly, but it seems that he has since recently been confirmed as Marcelino Hernandez Severiano by the LA Medical Examiner.

I, as well as the family friend, have both shared his GoFundMe link (created by the family friend, Charlene), which goes towards getting him home to his mother in Mexico and funeral expenses. The GoFundMe is currently at $1,718 out of $6,000. If anyone wants to donate or share the GoFundMe, that would be amazing. I'm hoping that they can get the full amount and make things at least a little less stressful for his family regarding money and expenses to get him home and everything.

Charlene updated the GoFundMe on April 26th with news that the consulate offered $1,000 towards transporting him home, and the funeral home gave an estimated cost of $6,400+ for what is needed, so donations and shares would be amazing to try and help with the cost of everything.

https://gofund.me/3a392290a

Santa Teresa Jane Doe (September 23, 2023)

• DATE OF DISCOVERY: September 23^(rd), 2023

• LOCATION OF DISCOVERY: Santa Teresa, Doña Ana County, New Mexico, 88008, USA (31°47’37.1”N, 106°44’42.7”W (31.79363, -106.7452))

• ESTIMATED YEAR OF DEATH: Not stated/Unknown

• POSTMORTEM INTERVAL: Not stated/Unknown

• CONDITION OF REMAINS: Not recognizable – Near complete or complete skeleton

• CAUSE OF DEATH: Not stated/Unknown

• SEX: Female

• ESTIMATED AGE: 16 – 25 years old

• RACE: Hispanic / Caucasian

• WEIGHT: Cannot estimate

• HEIGHT (ESTIMATED): 5’3” – 6’0” (63 – 72 inches; 160.02 – 182.88 cm)

• EYE COLOUR: Unknown

• HAIR: Brown (short)

• DISTINGUISHING MARKS/FEATURES:  

  • CHEST TATTOO: Fine line tattoo of a stylized lotus

 

BACKGROUND

On September 23^(rd), 2023, skeletal remains were found by border patrol in Santa Teresa, New Mexico.

The victim is believed to be a Hispanic teenage girl or young adult woman between 16 to 25 years old. She stood between 5’3” to 6’0” in height and had short, brown hair. She had a fine line stylized tattoo of a lotus on her chest. Her weight and eye colour could not be determined.

She was found wearing a light green long-sleeved shirt with the writing “California 1991” across the front, a black hoodie with two pockets on the front, a t-shirt that was possibly gray, black dark-wash jeans, a black underwire bra, black socks with white and red design, and black or blue “Nike” tennis shoes/sneakers. A cell phone, tin of “VapoRub”, tube of “Colgate” toothpaste, light green/mint and white toothbrush (looks like a folding toothbrush), Mexican and U.S. currency, as well as cards, notes, and papers, were found with her.

Sadly, there is not much information regarding this Doe or her case I also wish there was a photo or reconstruction photo of her tattoo, as "stylized" can mean so many things.

 

CLOTHING/ITEMS – On the body, the following was noted

• Light green long-sleeved shirt with the writing “California 1991” printed across the front (Brand “SHEIN”; no size noted)
• Black hoodie with two pockets on the front (Brand “SHEIN”; size “US 8/10”)
• T-shirt – possibly gray (No brand or sizer noted)
• Black dark-wash jeans (Brand “Levi’s”; no size noted)
• Black underwire bra (Brand “Coobie”; size “38B”)
• Black socks with white and red design (No brand or sizer noted)
• Black or blue tennis shoes/sneakers (Brand “Nike”; size “US 6.5Y”)
• Cell phone (No further description/information provided)
• Tin of “VapoRub”
• Tube of “Colgate” toothpaste
• Black charging cord with black charging block
• Light green/mint and white toothbrush (looks like a folding toothbrush)
• Mexican and U.S. currency
• Cards, notes, papers (No further description/information provided)

 

IDENTIFIERS – I could not find any information regarding identifiers

• Dentals: Unknown
• Fingerprints: Unknown
• DNA: Unknown

 

INVESTIGATING AGENCY & OTHER CASE INFORMATION

AGENCY ONE

• Agency Name: Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office
• Agency Phone Number: 575-525-1911

AGENCY TWO

• Agency Name: New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator
• Agency Phone Number: 505-272-3053
• Agency Case Number: 2023-06904

OTHER INFORMATION/CASE NUMBERS

• NamUs Case Number: #UP124927

 

REFERENCES

• NamUs (#UP124927)