Law enforcement officials in Jal, New Mexico, have discovered at least ten human skulls, one of which is believed to be connected to a woman who disappeared in 2019. The skulls were found at a residence associated with Cecil Villanueva, who was reported to have discarded objects that appeared to be human bones from a vehicle.
The investigation began on November 5, when a local resident reported an “unsettling encounter” with Villanueva while offering him a ride. The resident claimed that Villanueva was carrying two bags and made “alarming” statements while discarding objects from the vehicle, some of which appeared to be human bones, according to a press release from the Lea County Sheriff’s Office.
Following the report, bone fragments were found near a convenience store and Villanueva’s reported location. A pathologist later confirmed that the bones were human. A subsequent search of a home on South 4th Street, where Villanueva was staying, led to the discovery of additional bone fragments, including portions of a skull and jawbone. A comprehensive search conducted by a forensic anthropologist and a team of investigators on November 9 revealed ten to 20 human skulls.
The remains are now being analyzed for potential identification at the Office of the Medical Investigator in Albuquerque. The case is closely tied to the disappearance of Angela McManes, whose last known residence was near the property currently under investigation. Authorities are working diligently to determine the connection between the remains and McManes, as well as other possible victims.
Villanueva is currently in custody at the Lea County Detention Center on an unrelated misdemeanor charge of criminal trespass. He has not been charged in connection with the discovered remains. The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information about this case is asked to call the Lea County Sheriff’s Office at 575-396-3611.
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