Remains Found in New Mexico Forest Identified as Missing Lab Employee

Human remains found recently by a hiker in a New Mexico national forest belong to a Los Alamos National Laboratory employee who had been missing for nearly a year, according to authorities. The discovery in the McGaffey Ridge area of Carson National Forest was reported on Thursday. The New Mexico Medical Investigator’s Office identified the remains as those of Melissa Casias.

New Mexico State Police indicated in a statement that a handgun was found near the remains. The Medical Investigator’s Office will likely determine the cause and manner of death. A family representative stated there would be no comment until after a meeting with investigators. Los Alamos National Laboratory representatives did not respond immediately for comment.

The remains were found approximately six miles from Casias’ home and can be accessed by a state highway, where she was last seen walking when reported missing. Melissa Casias, aged 53, was reported missing on June 26 of the previous year. Her supervisor had contacted her husband, Mark Casias, because she had not reported for work.

On the day of her disappearance, Melissa had dropped Mark off at the lab, where they both worked. She mentioned going elsewhere within the lab for a task but did not return. Their daughter, Sierra, later found her mother’s belongings, including keys and a cellphone reset to factory settings, at their Ranchos de Taos home. State Police Sgt. Ricardo Breceda reported last year that a family acquaintance saw Melissa walking on State Road 518.

Mark Casias revealed that he found documents indicating Melissa was under significant stress but chose not to disclose specifics. Although authorities did not exclude foul play and considered the possibility she might have left willingly, Breceda noted that it ‘may be the case’ she disappeared voluntarily.

State Police offered their deepest condolences to Casias’ family and friends. The investigation is ongoing.