A young life was forever altered on January 3, 2006, when 6-year-old Estrella Cordova-Arias vanished from Cottonwood, Arizona. A Hispanic female with brown hair and brown eyes, Estrella was last seen wearing a red sweater and blue jeans. At the time of her disappearance, she was approximately 4 feet tall and weighed around 55 pounds. The circumstances surrounding her disappearance point to a heartbreaking family situation, as authorities believe she was abducted by her mother, Yessenia
Cordova-Procopio. The case was reported to the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office just two days later, on January 5, 2006, sparking an investigation that has now spanned many years.
The investigation into Estrella's disappearance led to a felony warrant being issued for her mother, Yessenia Cordova-Procopio, on March 23, 2006. It is believed that Yessenia may have fled with her daughter, possibly to Mexico. There is also information to suggest that they may have been in the company of an adult male. The vehicle associated with the abduction is a red 1998 Ford Mustang. As the years have passed, organizations such as the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children have created age-progressed photos to provide a visual representation of what Estrella might look like as she has grown older. These images are a poignant reminder of the bright future that was taken from her.
The search for Estrella Cordova-Arias remains an open and active case. Law enforcement and her loved ones have not given up hope of one day finding her and bringing her home. The Yavapai County Sheriff's Office continues to be the primary investigating agency, and they encourage anyone with information to come forward. This case serves as a somber reminder of the lasting pain and uncertainty that a child's abduction inflicts on a family and a community. The primary focus of the investigation has been on the belief that Estrella was taken by her mother, and the possibility of them having traveled to Mexico remains a significant element of the case. The hope is that one day, answers will be found and Estrella will be safely reunited with those who have never stopped looking for her.Last Seen: Jan 3, 2006
