Salazar said that, at this stage of the investigation, detectives do not suspect foul play. A firearm was recovered at the scene, and a gun owned by one of the teenager’s relatives has been reported missing. Forensic specialists will determine whether the weapon found in the field is the same firearm. The local medical examiner is expected to conduct an autopsy to confirm identity and establish the cause and manner of death. Officials indicated they are requesting an expedited review.
During earlier briefings, the sheriff noted that Mendoza Olmos had shown signs consistent with suicidal ideation and undiagnosed depression. Investigators had considered the possibility of self-harm throughout the search and used that assessment to prioritize certain search zones. The discovery of the firearm and other “indicators” at the scene reinforced that line of inquiry, Salazar said. Nonetheless, authorities emphasized that all conclusions remain preliminary until the medical examiner delivers a final report.
The days-long search incorporated technical assets such as drones, canine teams and aerial support, in addition to door-to-door canvasing and reviews of security camera footage. On Monday, the sheriff’s office released dash-camera video provided by a commuter who passed a lone female pedestrian on Wednesday morning along a nearby roadway. Investigators have not yet confirmed whether the person in that recording was Mendoza Olmos.
The teenager was first observed on home security footage early Wednesday searching her vehicle for an unknown item. After that brief activity, she apparently left the residence on foot. Relatives notified law enforcement later in the day when they were unable to locate her or establish contact.
Imagem: Internet
Salazar acknowledged the community support that mobilized quickly after the missing-person alert. Local residents joined deputies in organized ground searches, while businesses supplied food and equipment. Federal agents from the San Antonio FBI office assisted with technology, mapping and additional personnel.
Investigators said the field where the body was located had undergone at least one prior sweep, but search leaders decided to return because thick vegetation could have concealed evidence during the initial pass. The second inspection Tuesday afternoon involved a grid search with smaller intervals between team members, ultimately leading to the discovery.
The sheriff’s office stated it would share further information once the medical examiner’s findings are available and next of kin have received official notification. No timeline for the autopsy report was provided.
Resources remain in place for residents coping with mental-health challenges. Free and confidential assistance is accessible 24 hours a day through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, reachable by phone or text.
Crédito da imagem: Bexar County Sheriff’s Office
