Investigation underway after over a dozen human skulls found in Eastern New Mexico
The Lea County Sheriff’s Office launched an investigation in Jal, New Mexico after suspected human remains were discovered.A press release from Tuesday said the human remains may be linked to a missing persons case from 2019. The case is being closely tied to the 2019 disappearance of Angela McManes, whose last known residence was near the property under investigation.
After a comprehensive search, evidence of 10-20 human skulls was located along with portions of skull and jawbone, LCSO said
See below for the full press release:
The Lea County Sheriff’s Office is conducting an investigation in Jal, New Mexico, following the discovery of suspected human remains that may be linked to a missing persons case from 2019.
On November 5, 2024, an investigator with the Lea County Sheriff’s Office received a report involving a Jal resident who had an unsettling encounter with Cecil Villanueva while offering him a ride. He reported that Villanueva, carrying two bags, made alarming statements and discarded objects from the vehicle, some of which appeared to be human bones. Subsequent searches near a convenience store and Villanueva’s reported location revealed bone fragments later confirmed by a pathologist to be human.
Villanueva had been staying at a property on South 4th Street, associated with rumors of human remains.
Investigators executed a search warrant at the site on November 6, 2024, uncovering additional bone fragments, including portions of a skull and jawbone. These findings prompted collaboration with forensic experts.
On November 9, 2024, a forensic anthropologist and a team of investigators conducted a comprehensive search, discovering evidence of 10–20 human skulls. The remains have been transported to the Office of the Medical Investigator in Albuquerque for further analysis and potential identification.
The case is being closely tied to the 2019 disappearance of Angela McManes, whose last known residence was near the property under investigation. Authorities are working diligently to determine the connection between the remains and McManes, as well as other possible victims.
This is an active and ongoing investigation. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Lea County Sheriff’s Office at 575-396-3611 or Lea County Crimestoppers at 575-393-8005.
