Crime Solvers Central
Crime Solvers Central
295 Cases Solved. Advancing justice for missing persons, unsolved homicides, unidentified and unclaimed remains.

Case Description

Any updates on this case? Let us know!
Summary based on the NamUs case record (MP5744) and 8 other sources
Carmen Burhans, her husband Diego Garcia, and their 8-year-old daughter Barbara Burhans were last seen on March 15, 1982, in Los Angeles, California. The family left their home in a brown 1977 Toyota Corolla and never returned. Carmen’s mother, who lived upstairs, reported that she saw the family during breakfast that morning, and noticed Carmen was visibly upset, though she did not inquire further. Later that day, the family departed without taking any personal belongings, leaving behind their dog, luggage, and clothing.

On April 25, 1982, the family's car was discovered at the bottom of a gorge in the San Gabriel Mountains, buried under five feet of snow. Despite this discovery, no trace of the family was found, and there was no evidence of foul play inside the vehicle. The road where the car was found had been closed since March 16, leading to theories that the car may have been deliberately concealed or accidentally pushed by a snowplow.

Various theories emerged surrounding the disappearance, including rumors of Carmen’s involvement in a cult, and speculations that Diego may have been entangled in criminal activities, prompting the family to flee. There were some reported sightings of Carmen after their disappearance, but none were confirmed. As of today, the whereabouts of Carmen, Diego, and Barbara remain unknown, and the case is still unsolved.

Last Seen: Mar 15, 1982