Body Found in Search for Missing Texas Teen Camila Mendoza, Says Sheriff

Authorities have found a body during the search for Camila Mendoza Olmos, a 19-year-old girl who went missing near San Antonio, Texas, on December 24. Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar confirmed the discovery on Tuesday afternoon but stated that it is too early to determine if the body belongs to Mendoza Olmos.

Details Surrounding the Search for Camila Mendoza Olmos

The area where the remains were discovered is close to Mendoza Olmos’s residence. While authorities do not suspect foul play, there were indicators of self-harm related to the body. Furthermore, law enforcement is working to recover a firearm linked to a family member of the young woman. A firearm was indeed discovered near the body, but processing has yet to occur.

Background of the Case

Dozens of volunteers joined the search effort during the holiday weekend. Sheriff Salazar had previously indicated that Mendoza Olmos might be in imminent danger. He explained that various scenarios, including self-harm or potential abduction, were being considered in the ongoing investigation. Mendoza Olmos had previously expressed thoughts of suicide, which has heightened concerns regarding her well-being.

• Last seen on December 24, around 7 a.m.
• Wore a light blue and black sweatshirt, light blue pajamas, and white shoes.
• There is no clear direction of her movements after last being seen.

The sheriff’s office released surveillance footage showing Mendoza Olmos looking into her car before disappearing shortly thereafter. Another video captured a pedestrian, believed to be Mendoza Olmos, walking towards the north on Wildhorse Parkway the same morning.

Investigative Efforts

Authorities have expressed confusion over certain details of the case. Notably, Mendoza Olmos left her cell phone and iPad behind. The disappearance prompted a CLEAR Alert in Texas, indicating that she was potentially in imminent danger of harm.

Family members, including her mother, are uncertain about the circumstances of her disappearance. They maintain that it’s unlike Mendoza Olmos to leave willingly or be with a stranger. The FBI and the Department of Homeland Security are assisting local agencies in the investigation, examining travel records and border crossings.

Community Support and Ongoing Search

The search effort has gained significant attention within the community, with many individuals risking their safety to search for her. Friends and family members are hopeful for her safe return. Her mother, expressing her anguish, urged anyone with information to help bring her daughter home.

“Please bring her back to us, or if my girl is watching this, come back. That’s all we ask,” said her mother.

This ongoing case has captured the attention of both local and extended communities. With the investigation still active, authorities continue to seek any leads that may help uncover the whereabouts of Camila Mendoza Olmos.