Suspect Charged 5 Years After Man’s Murder in Native American Community

After five long years of waiting, Vangie Randall-Shorty finally received some answers regarding her son, Zachariah Shorty. Federal authorities recently charged three individuals linked to his murder on the Navajo Nation in 2020. The emotional response from Randall-Shorty encapsulates the anguish that families of crime victims experience.

Charges Filed in Zachariah Shorty’s Murder

In a significant development in the case, Austin Begay, 31, has been charged with first-degree murder. Two others, Jaymes Fage, 38, and Joshua Watkins, 40, face charges for their involvement in aiding the murder and misleading investigators. The specifics surrounding their connection to the crime are yet to be disclosed.

Operation Not Forgotten

The charges stem from efforts under Operation Not Forgotten, launched by the U.S. Department of Justice. This initiative saw over 60 FBI personnel deployed across 10 states, including Albuquerque, Phoenix, Seattle, and Detroit. The operation aimed to address uninvestigated violent crimes affecting Native American communities.

Statistics on Violence in Indian Country

Despite ongoing efforts for justice, statistics reveal a troubling reality. Federal data shows Native Americans face some of the highest rates of violent crime in the U.S. Notably, Indigenous women are disproportionately affected by cases of disappearance and murder.

• Over 4,300 open investigations in the FBI’s Indian Country program.
• About 900 death investigations currently open.
• Approximately 1,000 child abuse investigations ongoing.
• Over 500 cases of domestic violence and adult sexual abuse being pursued.

Community Impact and Advocacy

The community is responding positively to the recent arrests. Randall-Shorty has been active in raising awareness about her son’s case. She has participated in town halls, community marches, and prayer circles to keep the fight for justice alive.

Reflecting on her son’s life, she mentioned his aspirations as an artist and tattooist. Zachariah Shorty, a father, was last seen at the Journey Inn Motel in Farmington, where he was making music with friends. Tragically, he was found in a field nearby, shot multiple times.

The Way Forward

Despite the recent charges, many advocates stress the need for sustained federal resources. They argue that this investment should continue to address the ongoing crisis in Indian communities. Randall-Shorty embodies the struggle, expressing her desire to keep her son’s memory alive while advocating for justice.

As the legal process unfolds, Vangie remains resolute. “My heart is heavy,” she admits, but she vows to continue being her son’s voice. The challenges faced by families like hers highlight the critical need for change within the system.