Joel Valdez

Update: The search for Joel Valdez reached a sad ending. The body of Joel “Deano” Valdez, who went missing in September, has been found outside Santa Fe, according to the New Mexico State Police.

Our thoughts are with Joel’s family as they face this devastating news. We extend compassion to everyone affected and will continue to honor his story with care and respect. 💔

Case Information:

Joel Valdez (“Deano”) is a 36-year-old Marine veteran and a father of three. He vanished on September 18, 2025, while driving home from his job site. Specifically, he was traveling from Silver City to Coyote, New Mexico, when all contact stopped. He eventually reached Santa Fe, where bank records confirm he used an ATM. Consequently, this stop is the last verified point in his timeline. Since that moment, the sequence of events has remained broken and unclear.

Unexpected Change:

Earlier that day, Joel Valdez texted his wife to say he was on his way. Additionally, he spoke briefly with his cousin during the drive. Nothing in those conversations suggested any trouble or a change in his plans. However, witnesses later reported seeing his white 2015 Chevy Silverado in Albuquerque. This unexpected sighting shifted the search to central New Mexico. Furthermore, the new location deepened the mystery for both the family and investigators.

Card Activity:

The first major red flag appeared the day after he went missing. At that time, someone began using his bank card without permission. These unknown individuals made large gas purchases and attempted to buy items at local stores. Clearly, these actions showed that another person had his wallet and belongings. By September 21, someone tried to use the card again. Meanwhile, his phone stayed off. Because of these events, the case became urgent for both the state police and his family.

Out Of Character:

Family members say this behavior is not like Joel Valdez at all. As a veteran of the war in Afghanistan, he was always very aware of his surroundings. Moreover, he lived a steady life and loved his children deeply. His cousin believes the card activity proves someone else took his things. Therefore, the family’s fear grows each day. They want answers about the strange charges and, most importantly, they want to know where Deano is now.

Investigation:

New Mexico State Police are currently investigating both the disappearance and the card theft. Detectives requested video from the stores where the card was used. Despite Santa Fe having many cameras, no footage has shown Deano himself. This lack of video makes the investigation difficult. Nevertheless, officers continue searching for clues. They want to understand how and why he ended up in Albuquerque that night.

Searching Answers:

As months passed, some unverified reports suggested Deano might have died. However, the state police have not confirmed these claims. For this reason, they still treat this as an active missing person case. Investigators follow every lead that comes in. Unfortunately, the missing vehicle slows the search significantly. The waiting has been painful for his family. Ultimately, they hope for clarity and a peaceful resolution to this nightmare.

Family Efforts:

His family refuses to stop searching for the truth. For instance, they organize their own searches and stay in constant contact with police. They also offered a $7,000 reward for credible information. Relatives speak to the media often because they do not want the public to forget Deano. Their persistence keeps the case alive. Indeed, their hard work ensures the community stays focused on finding the truth.

Devoted Father:

Friends describe Joel Valdez as a dedicated father and a hard worker. He worked as a lineman for Local Union 611 for many years. His disappearance has deeply affected his children and left a painful void in the family. Furthermore, loved ones believe someone knows what happened. They hope that person will finally come forward and tell the truth.

Description:

Joel Valdez is 5’11” and weighs about 175 lbs. When he left, he wore jeans, a t-shirt, work boots, and a two-tone trucker hat. His white Silverado 2500 is still missing. Specifically, the truck has New Mexico plate 248THP. Finding this vehicle is one of the strongest paths to solving the case. Locating it could provide the lead investigators need to move forward.

Contact Information:

If you have information about Joel “Deano” Valdez, please contact the New Mexico State Police at (505) 841-9256. You may remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at (505) 843-STOP. Every tip matters. Call 911 immediately if you see him or his white truck today.

---