The Mobile County Sheriff's Office in Alabama has launched an intensive investigation into the mysterious disappearance of a Guatemalan mother and her two children, who vanished from their home under disturbing circumstances. Authorities are treating the case with utmost urgency after discovering troubling evidence at the residence.
Disturbing Scene Discovered at Family Home
Forty-year-old Aurelia Choc Cac, along with her seventeen-year-old daughter Niurka Zuleta and two-year-old son Anthony Garcia Choc, were last seen at their Mobile County residence on Friday, January 30. When authorities conducted a welfare check, they encountered a scene that immediately raised alarm bells.
Sheriff Paul Burch described finding multiple signs of a struggle throughout the home. Investigators discovered blood evidence in various locations, clothing scattered across bedroom floors, and several significant items missing from the property. Notably, a laundry hamper and a mattress had disappeared from the residence, while cash and cell phones were left behind—details that suggest the family did not leave voluntarily.
Neighbor Provides Crucial Information
Maurice Simmons, a neighbor who spoke with Aurelia on Friday evening, told authorities she gave no indication of planning to leave or any distress during their conversation. In his 911 call, Simmons mentioned a "crazy ex-boyfriend" who had reportedly been on the run for months, though law enforcement officials have not confirmed any specific suspect at this time.
Authorities noted there were no signs of forced entry into the home, adding another layer of mystery to the investigation. The Mobile County Sheriff's Office initially identified Juan Antonio Garcia, Anthony's father, as a person of interest but has since cleared him after confirming he was in Texas when the disappearance occurred.
Immigration Status Complicates Investigation
The investigation has taken on additional complexity as authorities revealed that both Aurelia Choc Cac and her daughter Niurka were under final deportation orders issued in April. This immigration context has prompted collaboration between local authorities, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Homeland Security Investigations to explore all possible angles in the case.
Family's Heartbreaking Plea for Return
Lorena, the oldest daughter of the missing family, has made an emotional public appeal for their safe return. "Whoever did this, please bring my little brother home," she pleaded. "I'm waiting for them to come home with the little baby." Her heartfelt statement underscores the family's anguish as the search continues.
Detailed Descriptions Released
Authorities have released comprehensive physical descriptions of the missing individuals to aid in public recognition:
- Aurelia Choc Cac: Five feet tall, approximately 140 pounds with black hair. She was last seen wearing a maroon jacket and tan joggers.
- Niurka Zuleta: Five feet one inch tall, about 100 pounds with black hair. Her last known clothing included a black top and plaid pants.
- Anthony Garcia Choc: Approximately 30 pounds with black hair. The two-year-old was last seen in a cartoon character hoodie and blue jeans.
Authorities Seek Public Assistance
The Mobile County Sheriff's Office is urging anyone with information about the family's whereabouts to contact their tip line at 251-574-8633. Sheriff Burch emphasized the unusual nature of the case, stating, "This is very unusual. We're exploring every possibility and hoping to find them safe."
Investigators continue to follow multiple leads while maintaining hope for the family's safe recovery. The combination of the disturbing scene, the family's immigration status, and the lack of clear suspects has created a complex investigation that authorities are pursuing with all available resources.
