Crime Solvers Central
Crime Solvers Central
298 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 (MP96048) and 13 other sources
Maren Carlson, a 99-year-old woman from West Valley City, Utah, was last seen on November 1, 2021. She lived with her grandson, Garman Shaun Cunningham, and his wife. On November 12, Cunningham's wife managed to escape their home after being held captive and reported that Maren Carlson had likely been killed by Cunningham. According to her testimony, Cunningham brutally assaulted Carlson, attempting to smother her before throwing her down the stairs multiple times and stabbing her with a piece of her broken walker. He later wrapped her body in plastic and told his wife he disposed of it in the Uinta Mountains.

Despite extensive searches by law enforcement in areas around the Uintas, Carlson's body has never been found. Investigators believe her remains may have been dumped near remote locations along State Route 150 or State Route 35, where Cunningham reportedly traveled after the incident. Evidence such as blood and a broken walker was found at their home, and Cunningham was charged with her murder. However, he died by suicide while in custody in March 2022, leaving the family desperate for closure.

Authorities continue to ask the public, particularly those visiting the mountains, to look for any potential evidence related to Carlson’s case. Her family hopes to find her remains to give her a proper burial.

Last Seen: Nov 1, 2021