Melissa Casias, a 53-year-old employee at Los Alamos National Laboratory who disappeared in June 2025, has been found dead in a remote area of Carson National Forest in New Mexico.
Authorities said a hiker discovered her remains near McGaffey Ridge. A firearm was found nearby, but officials have not yet released an official cause or manner of death. Private investigator Thomas McNally, hired by the family, claimed Casias was found with a gunshot wound to the skull and described the circumstances as suspicious.
Casias was last seen on June 26, 2025, walking alone near Ranchos de Taos after reportedly leaving her home. Investigators said she had erased data from her phones and left both the devices and her identification behind before disappearing.
The case attracted national attention due to her work at Los Alamos National Laboratory and similarities to other cases involving government employees. However, McNally said he does not believe her death is connected to her job.
Casias’ family has criticized the investigation and plans to file a civil lawsuit against New Mexico State Police, alleging the case was mishandled. The investigation remains ongoing.!