Nearly 32 years after a teenage girl disappeared in Arizona, authorities say she has been located alive.
The Gila County Sheriff’s Office announced Wednesday that investigators recently found Christina Marie Plante, who had disappeared from the mountain community of Star Valley—known as Payson at the time—in May 1994 when she was 13 years old.
According to officials, Plante was last seen walking to a stable where her horse was kept. Her disappearance triggered a large search effort and a widespread flyer campaign as people attempted to locate her. Despite those efforts, investigators were unable to find solid leads, and the investigation eventually went cold.
The case itself was never officially closed. It was later reassigned to the sheriff’s office cold case unit for further review. Authorities said detectives reexamined the investigation using updated technology, newer investigative methods, and a thorough review of the original case file. Those efforts led to new leads and ultimately a breakthrough that allowed them to locate Plante.
Officials said they are not releasing details about where the now 44-year-old woman was found or about her current situation, citing her privacy. Law enforcement also has not said whether any criminal charges are expected.
The sheriff’s office confirmed that the case has now been resolved and that Plante is no longer listed as a missing person.