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

Case Description

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Summary based on the NamUs case record (MP140493) and 2 other sources
In the winter of 2020, a young life was quietly disrupted in Phoenix, Arizona. Sixteen-year-old Sarai Velazquez, a female with black hair and brown eyes, was last seen on January 15, 2020. At the time of her disappearance, she was in the care of foster parents. The circumstances surrounding her leaving the residence are understood to be that she ran away. Authorities believe there is a possibility that she may have intended to travel back to Guatemala, a journey that would have likely taken her by bus through Mexico. The specifics of her departure and any potential travel plans remain largely unconfirmed, leaving a void of information for those concerned about her welfare.

Sarai is described as being 5 feet 2 inches tall and weighing approximately 100 pounds at the time she went missing. Her case was reported to the Phoenix Police Department, who initiated an investigation into her disappearance. Details regarding what she was last seen wearing or any personal belongings she may have had with her have not been widely publicized. The lack of specific information presents significant challenges for both law enforcement and the public in the effort to locate her. The passage of time without any confirmed sightings or communication has only deepened the concern for her safety and well-being.

The investigation into Sarai Velazquez's disappearance remains open. Her case is a poignant reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by young people, particularly those within the foster care system. The lack of concrete leads or evidence has left her loved ones and community with more questions than answers. The overview of this case is one of a sudden and quiet departure, with the unsettling possibility of a perilous journey. The absence of further information has created a painful and prolonged period of uncertainty for all who are invested in her safe return.

Last Seen: Jan 14, 2020

Possible Unidentified Matches (4)

Unidentified remains cases whose details are consistent with this person, ranked by how closely they compare. Fields that are unknown in either case are left out of the score.

77%Possible
Jane Doe — Gila Bend, Arizona
UP135144 • Found Oct 30, 2024
View case
Sex ✓Female
Age 100%Est. 18–25 vs 16 when missing
Race 100%Hispanic
Location 90%46 mi away, same county
TimingFound 5 years after last seen
Height 84%5'4"–5'8" vs 5'2"
77%Possible
Unidentified Person — Gila Bend, Arizona - unidentified case UP158272
Unidentified Person — Gila Bend, Arizona
UP158272 • Found Mar 26, 2026
View case
Age 100%Est. 16–25 vs 16 when missing
Race 100%Hispanic
Location 90%46 mi away, same county
TimingFound 6 years after last seen
Height 100%5'3"–5'7" vs 5'2"
76%Possible
Jane Doe — Stanfield, Arizona
UP84259 • Found Aug 20, 2021
View case
Sex ✓Female
Age 95%Est. 18–32 vs 16 when missing
Race 100%Hispanic
Location 93%36 mi away, same state
TimingFound 19 months after last seen
75%Possible
Jane Doe — San Miguel, Arizona - unidentified case UP132360
Jane Doe — San Miguel, Arizona
UP132360 • Found Jul 11, 2024
View case
Sex ✓Female
Age 100%Est. 17–20 vs 16 when missing
Race 100%Hispanic
Location 70%124 mi away, same state
TimingFound 4 years after last seen
Height 100%4'10"–5'2" vs 5'2"

These comparisons are generated automatically from public NamUs case data and are not confirmed identifications. Only DNA, dental or fingerprint comparison by investigators can confirm an identity. If you believe two cases are connected, contact the agency handling the unidentified case.

Unidentified photos are blurred because many are post-mortem. Tap a photo to reveal it.