Body Found in Search for Missing Texas Teen Camila Mendoza Olmos
Texas law enforcement officials have confirmed that a body has been discovered during the search for missing 19-year-old Camila Mendoza Olmos, who vanished on Christmas Eve in San Antonio. Authorities say the discovery was made Tuesday afternoon in a nearby field by a coordinated search team, though the identity of the deceased has not yet been officially confirmed.
Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar announced the development, stating that foul play is not currently suspected. A firearm was located near the body, but investigators emphasized that it is too early to draw conclusions regarding the circumstances surrounding the death. The Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office will conduct an autopsy to confirm the identity and determine the cause of death.
Camila was last seen on the morning of Wednesday, December 24, shortly before 7 a.m., leaving her home in the Caspian Spring neighborhood of San Antonio. According to the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO), she was wearing baby blue pajama bottoms, a baby blue and black hoodie, and white shoes at the time.
Surveillance footage reviewed by investigators shows an individual believed to be Camila standing near her vehicle in the early morning hours, appearing to search inside the car for an unidentified item. The footage ends shortly afterward, and authorities believe she left the residence on foot, as her vehicle remained parked at the home. The only items thought to be in her possession were her car key and possibly her driver’s license.
Camila’s mother reported that it was not unusual for her daughter to go on morning walks, but became alarmed when Camila failed to return within a reasonable time. Multiple agencies joined the search effort, including the FBI, while Homeland Security confirmed that Camila had not been detained or involved in any immigration enforcement activity.
One day prior to the discovery, Sheriff Salazar shared that investigators were exploring the possibility that Camila had been experiencing mental health challenges, including depression, and had previously expressed suicidal thoughts. However, he emphasized that all investigative avenues remained open, including the possibility of abduction, until official confirmation is made.
Sheriff Salazar also noted that authorities had been searching for a firearm belonging to a family member, which may be relevant to the ongoing investigation.
The community has remained on edge as they await confirmation from the medical examiner. Officials urge patience while forensic testing is completed and have asked the public to avoid speculation out of respect for the family.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or experiencing a crisis, help is available. In the United States, you can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or visit 988lifeline.org. You may also contact the Crisis Text Line by texting MHA to 741741.
