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Carson National Forest
Photo: U.S. Forest Service-Carson National Forest | Public domain | Wikimedia Commons

Body Of Missing Los Alamos Lab Worker Found In New Mexico Forest

A hiker found human remains Thursday, May 28, 2026, in the McGaffey Ridge area of Carson National Forest, New Mexico.[1] The Office of the Medical Investigator identified the remains as 54-year-old Los Alamos National Laboratory worker Melissa Casias.[1] A handgun was found alongside the remains, and the cause and manner of death remain undetermined pending further examination.[1]

Casias was reported missing June 25, 2025, after she failed to arrive at work and left her purse, identification and two phones at home.[1] Her disappearance is one of 11 scientist and lab-linked cases now being reviewed by the FBI, the White House and the House Oversight Committee for possible connections.[1]

Authorities say they are continuing to investigate Casias's death and have not announced a determination linking it to any of the other cases under review.

  1. Fox News
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📌 Key Facts

  • A hiker reported finding human remains Thursday, May 28, 2026, in the McGaffey Ridge area of Carson National Forest, New Mexico.
  • The Office of the Medical Investigator identified the remains as those of 54-year-old Los Alamos National Laboratory worker Melissa Casias.
  • A handgun was found alongside the remains; cause and manner of death are still undetermined pending further examination.
  • Casias was reported missing June 25, 2025, after failing to arrive at work and leaving her purse, ID and phones at home.
  • Her disappearance is among 11 scientist and lab-linked cases being reviewed by the FBI, the White House and House Oversight for potential connections.

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