INFO:

The discovery of a serial killer makes everyone’s hair stick up - immediately locking your doors and windows. We like to think the police will find them via DNA, fingerprints, or something else. It was no different in Albuquerque, New Mexico on this day in 2009. A woman’s dog brings her back a human bone from a nearby housing development. When she informs authorities, it leads to a month-long investigation and a horrifying discovery. 11 women and girl’s bodies were recovered, homicides from between 2001 and 2005. This assailant was dubbed the West Mesa Bone Collector. His victims include: Jamie Barela, 15; Monica Candelaria, 22; Victoria Chaves, 26; Virginia Cloven, 24; Syllania Edwards, 15; Cinnamon Elks, 32; Doreen Marquez, 24; Julie Nieto, 24; Veronica Romero, 28; Evelyn Salazar, 27; and Michelle Valdez, 22. Most of these victims were linked to sex work. “That’s why the West Mesa killer was able to do it,” states Christine Barber, the head of non-profit organization Safe Streets New Mexico, “No one noticed they were gone.” There are two men that are widely suspected as the serial killer including a man Lorenzo Montoya who was known to be violent against sex workers and was killed by a pimp in 2006, around the time the killings ceased. Another suspect is Joseph Blea who is now serving time as a serial rapist in the area. But, 15 years later, the mystery remains unsolved. If it was one of these men, New Mexico can rest easy knowing they won’t cause any more harm. Or, is there a serial killer on the loose who either moved locations or is getting better at his evil passtime? Albuquerque CrimeStoppers is offering a $100,000 reward in the case. Tips can be submitted by calling (505)768-2450 or Crime Stopper at (505)843-STOP. Sources: InvestigationDiscovery.com, AllThatsInteresting.com