FBI Investigation Charges Zachariah Shorty in 2020 Native American Murder
A significant breakthrough has occurred in the investigation surrounding the murder of Zachariah Shorty, a 23-year-old from the Navajo Nation. Federal authorities announced charges against three individuals linked to his death, which took place in 2020. Vangie Randall-Shorty expressed her emotional response, stating, “I carry him in my heart every day.”
Details of the Murder Investigation
Shorty was last seen at the Journey Inn Motel in Farmington, New Mexico, where he was socializing with friends. His body was discovered days later in a field near Nenahnezad. The FBI has charged:
- Austin Begay, 31 – First-degree murder
- Jaymes Fage, 38 – Aiding and abetting
- Joshua Watkins, 40 – Lying to investigators
No further information has been provided regarding the circumstances of the murder or the connections between Shorty and the accused.
Operation Not Forgotten and Federal Resources
The recent indictments are part of a larger effort called Operation Not Forgotten, which mobilized over 60 FBI agents and analysts across ten states, including Albuquerque and Seattle. This initiative aims to address the high rates of violence against Native Americans. The 2025 fiscal year data indicates that there are approximately 4,300 open investigations within Indian Country.
Statistics on Violence Against Native Americans
Federal statistics reveal concerning trends in violent victimization among Native Americans:
- Over 900 open death investigations
- Approximately 1,000 child abuse investigations
- More than 500 cases of domestic violence and sexual abuse
This year alone, the initiative led to 1,123 arrests and the recovery of more than 300 weapons. Additionally, over 450 children victimized by crimes were identified.
Advocacy and Community Response
Vangie Randall-Shorty has actively participated in community efforts to keep her son’s case alive, attending town halls and marches. She believes the increased federal resources contributed to the progress in her son’s case. Yet, she worries about the sustainability of these efforts as federal resources may decline.
FBI Director Kash Patel labeled Operation Not Forgotten a “major step forward” while acknowledging the challenges posed by resource limitations. Advocacy for permanent investment in addressing these violent crimes continues to grow, as communities seek long-term solutions to combat the crisis of violence against Native Americans.
Historical Context
Efforts to address these issues have gained national attention over the years. Notably, during his presidency, Donald Trump signed an executive order to create a task force dedicated to tackling violence against Native Americans. Additionally, former US Interior Secretary Deb Haaland formed a national commission to improve investigations and legal frameworks affecting tribal communities.
As this case unfolds, Vangie Randall-Shorty remains committed to advocating for justice, expressing both pride in her son’s memory and the deep sorrow of his loss. “My heart is heavy,” she stated, emphasizing her determination to be his voice.
