After several days of searching, the Midland Police Department announced Saturday a missing Midland woman is dead and a 24-year-old man is facing a murder charge.
Mario Juan Chacon Jr., 24, was arrested on suspicion of murder in the death of Madeline Molina Pantoja, 20.
Pantoja was last seen at 11 p.m. May 10 at 1711 West Francis Avenue and she was reported missing the following day. According to authorities, her vehicle and phone were found at her home.
During a press conference Friday, Midland Police Chief Seth Herman said his department has been working 24-hours a day to find Pantoja. They’ve searched 60 square miles of remote properties using drones, manned aircraft and police personnel, he said.
The department has also carried out more than a dozen searches on technological devices and property, interviewed 25 people and followed up on 20 CrimeStopper and other tips, Herman said.
According to the City of Midland, Pantoja’s remains were found roughly three miles east of County Road 190 and County Road 1160. An autopsy will be conducted in Dallas County.
Family members have said Pantoja was heard by neighbors having an argument with a man the night she disappeared.
Chacon is believed to be Pantoja’s former boyfriend.
