Arizona girl who disappeared when she was 13 found alive 32 years later

PHOENIX – An Arizona missing persons case that baffled investigators for over three decades has been solved.

A teenage girl who vanished in 1994 was found alive 32 years later, authorities announced Wednesday.

Christina Marie Plante disappeared “without a trace” from Star Valley, just east of Payson, in May 1994, according to the Gila County Sheriff’s Office.

She was 13 at the time.

Extensive search efforts were fruitless, and investigators were unable to develop any viable leads.

How was missing Arizona girl located 32 years later?

Plante’s information was entered into national missing children databases, and the case remained open. Over the years, authorities reassessed existing evidence and followed up on any new information that became available.

Investigators in the Gila County Sheriff’s Office Cold Case Unit eventually used modern investigative techniques and technology to develop breakthrough evidence.

They were then able to confirm that Plante is alive 32 years later and officially close the case. Details about her current situation are being withheld out of respect for her privacy, the Gila County Sheriff’s Office said.

Related

Authorities identify woman’s body found in canal in Scottsdale, investigation ongoingLuxury condo garages for vehicle storage coming to ScottsdalePhoenix stabbing victim dies at hospital, suspect chargedSerial rapist sentenced in Maricopa CountyMarine veteran Senator Ruben Gallego warns Iran war has no endgameU.S. Sen. Ruben Gallego says he’s considering running for president