A 38-year-old woman who had recently relocated to Mississippi was found dead over the weekend, days after she was reported missing. Authorities say they believe foul play was involved.
Joyce Gomez, originally from another state, moved to the coastal town of Pass Christian in February, according to her Facebook profile. She was last seen alive late Friday night, April 25, in nearby Bay St. Louis.
When Gomez was reported missing the following day, local authorities launched an investigation with the assistance of the Harrison County Sheriff’s Department. As evidence emerged, investigators quickly concluded that her disappearance may have involved criminal activity.
On Sunday, police discovered Gomez’s body in a wooded area, though the exact location and cause of death have not yet been disclosed. Officials from the Pass Christian Police Department said the case remains an open and active investigation.
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“It’s an ongoing investigation,” Police Chief Daren Freeman told the Sun Herald, adding that they “expect an arrest.”
No suspects have been publicly named as of Monday afternoon, and police have not released additional details.
Gomez’s death has left her friends and loved ones devastated, with many sharing emotional tributes online.
“Please wake me from this dream,” one friend wrote on Facebook. “I will miss you forever, Joyce Gomez. You were an amazing friend that was always so nice to me. May you find rest and know justice will be done.”
Another post read: “Heartbroken doesn’t even begin to cover it. Joyce Gomez was a wonderful person, a great mom and an amazing friend.”
