Santa Fe, New Mexico – A months-long search for a missing man has come to a tragic end after authorities confirmed human remains found in Santa Fe County belong to Joel “Deano” Valdez.
According to New Mexico State Police, investigators received a report on Saturday, April 12, after a person walking their dog discovered remains near Caja del Rio Road. Through coordination with the Office of the Medical Investigator, the remains were positively identified as Valdez, who had been missing since last year.
Valdez was reported missing after he failed to return home to Coyote following work in Silver City on Sunday, September 21. Since then, state police and local agencies have conducted an extensive and ongoing investigation into his disappearance.
Officials said the cause and manner of death have not yet been determined. The Office of the Medical Investigator will continue further forensic and anthropological analysis to better understand the circumstances surrounding his death.
Authorities are asking anyone with information related to the case to contact New Mexico State Police at 505-841-9256. The investigation remains active, and additional updates may be released as new details become available.
