On November 10, 2021, 54-year-old Marie Gene Benally, a member of the Navajo Nation, disappeared from Chilchinbito, Arizona. Known to her loved ones as 'Weezy' or 'Weezie,' she was last seen at NHA #1, also referred to as Chilchinbeto Estates. Disturbing circumstances surround her disappearance, as it is reported that she was forcibly removed from the residence by unknown individuals. Since that day, there has been no contact from Marie, leaving her family and community deeply concerned for her welfare. At the time she went missing, she was wearing a yellow shirt, green or gray sweatpants, black shoes, and a brown Carhartt jacket. She is also noted to wear multiple rings on her fingers and has several tattoos on her fingers and forearms.
Following her disappearance, the Navajo Police Department's Kayenta District launched an investigation and issued a public appeal for information. Numerous ground searches have been conducted in the area surrounding Chilchinbito in an effort to locate any sign of Marie. Her case was entered into the National Crime Information Center a nationwide database used by law enforcement agencies. Despite these efforts, information regarding the specifics of her case remains limited. The Navajo Police Department has urged anyone with information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to come forward and contact their Kayenta District office.
Marie Benally's case is a painful reminder of the ongoing crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous People. The lack of resolution in her disappearance highlights the challenges and fears that many Indigenous communities face. Her family and community continue to hold out hope for answers and her safe return. The investigation into what happened to Marie Benally remains active as those who know her await any news that might bring an end to their uncertainty.
Last Seen: Nov 10, 2021
