Erika Andrea Gaytan, a 29-year-old woman from El Paso, Texas, tragically disappeared on July 13, 2019, after attending the El Reencuentro Norteño concert at the El Paso County Coliseum with Ricardo Marquez. Gaytan, who was the loving mother of a then-7-year-old boy, posted several times on social media during the concert, appearing happy and enjoying the event. However, after the concert ended, Marquez claimed that they had an argument and that Gaytan left on a ride-share service.
Detectives investigating the case found no evidence that Gaytan had requested or used a ride-share service that night. Further investigation revealed that Marquez had borrowed a shovel from his sister and his brother's Jeep Wrangler, despite having his own car. Security camera footage showed the Jeep traveling to and from the Red Sands desert area. During a search of Marquez's home, detectives found sand-filled shoes and zip ties that appeared to have been used as restraints.
In December 2019, Marquez was arrested and charged with murder. A Texas Department of Public Safety DNA lab report confirmed that blood found on the Jeep's rear cargo mat matched Gaytan. In June 2022, a jury found Marquez guilty of murder, and he was sentenced to 75 years in prison. Despite extensive searches, Gaytan's body has never been found. Her family continues to seek closure and hopes that her remains will be discovered so they can give her a proper burial.
The case highlights the challenges prosecutors face when a body is not recovered, but the conviction and lengthy sentence brought some measure of justice for Gaytan's family. They have expressed their gratitude for the efforts of law enforcement and volunteers but remain hopeful that someone will come forward with information that will lead to the discovery of her remains.
