Human Remains Believed to Be Missing New Caney Woman Maria Ortiz Recovered Near Her Home

NEW CANEY, TX -- The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, working with Montgomery County Search and Rescue, recovered human remains believed to be those of missing New Caney resident Maria Ortiz. While definitive identification through dental records is expected later this week, preliminary investigative findings are consistent with the remains being those of Ortiz.

Ortiz was reported missing by her family on July 20, 2026, after leaving her residence in the Oak Knoll area of New Caney on foot. Family members reported that Ortiz experienced memory and confusion issues.

Since her disappearance, The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office has actively searched for Ortiz continuously. Detectives pursued numerous leads and coordinated search efforts with Texas Search and Rescue, Montgomery County Search and Rescue, Texas EquuSearch, The Call Service, and many dedicated family members, friends, and volunteers.

Today, the remains were located in a wooded area near Ortiz’s residence, where she was last seen. At this time, no foul play is suspected. The cause and manner of death remain under investigation; however, preliminary information indicates Ortiz may have died of natural causes in the wooded area.

Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office Persons Crimes Detectives, Major Crimes Detectives, and Crime Scene Investigators responded to the scene and continue to investigate.

The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office extends its thoughts and prayers to Ortiz’s family and all who loved her during this incredibly difficult time. While this is not the outcome anyone hoped for, we hope the recovery brings her family some measure of peace.

The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office also extends its sincere appreciation to the partner agencies, volunteers, members of the public, and media outlets that shared information and supported the effort to locate Maria Ortiz