Yuma, Arizona – Authorities are actively searching for Esmeralda Chavez-Avalos, 39, and her newborn daughter, who have been missing since Tuesday, August 20, 2024. The Yuma County Sheriff’s Office reported that Esmeralda was last seen at her residence on the 11300 Block of Elena Drive around 7:45 PM. The search was initiated after a disturbing incident involving an injured male at the same location.
The male, identified as Esmeralda’s boyfriend, was found with a hand injury late Tuesday night and was uncooperative during the investigation. Despite the Yuma County Sheriff’s Office’s efforts to locate Esmeralda and her 10-day-old daughter, their whereabouts remain unknown.
Esmeralda Chavez-Avalos is described as 5’4" tall, weighing approximately 200 pounds, with light brown hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a pink long sleeve shirt and blue jeans with several rips on the front.
The disappearance has sparked concern in the Yuma community, with several individuals taking to social media to express their hopes and prayers for the safe return of Esmeralda and her baby.
Tammy Seeter commented, "Hope her and baby are safe!" while Vanessa Calento wrote, "Sending out prayers her and her newborn are found unharmed and safe."
Other community members echoed these sentiments, with Alicia Grenia simply stating, "Praying," and Ron Caffee adding, "Prayers for Esmeralda, her baby, and her loved ones."
The Yuma County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information on Esmeralda’s whereabouts to come forward. They can contact the Sheriff’s Office directly at 928-783-4427 or submit an anonymous tip through 78-CRIME.
As the search continues, the community remains on edge, hoping for positive news about the missing mother and her newborn child.