A body discovered near a crashed vehicle on White Mountain outside of Rock Springs, Wyoming, is believed to be that of 41-year-old Melissa Ann Amadio, a Green River woman who had been missing for over two months, according to the Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Office, Cowboy State Daily reports.
While the identity of the woman has not yet been confirmed through forensic analysis, investigators say strong circumstantial evidence — including the vehicle description and personal belongings found at the scene — suggest it is Amadio, who was last seen on February 26.
The gold and white Cadillac El Dorado, reportedly the vehicle Amadio was driving though not registered to her, was found in a ravine by recreational dirt bikers on Sunday. The crash site was located approximately five miles outside of Rock Springs. According to Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Jason Mower, investigators believe the vehicle veered off County Road 53, descending roughly 1,000 feet before coming to rest after rolling for a quarter to a half mile.
The woman’s body was located 30 to 50 yards from the wreckage, indicating she was likely ejected during the crash.
Authorities say there is no indication of foul play.
“It appears consistent with a car crashing off of the mountain,” Mower said.
Due to the remote location, subdued vehicle color, and seasonal drop in outdoor activity, the crash site had gone unnoticed for several weeks.
“This time of year, fewer people are in the area, and the vehicle blended in with the surroundings,” Mower explained.
The discovery highlights the challenges of locating missing persons in rural areas like Sweetwater County, which spans more than 10,400 square miles. Mower noted that similar incidents occur in Wyoming periodically, where crash victims can go undiscovered for extended periods due to the state’s vast, rugged terrain.
Melissa Amadio’s brother, Eddie Kopfman, acknowledged the discovery in a public Facebook post and asked for privacy while the family prepares for funeral arrangements. He expressed gratitude for those who assisted in the search efforts.
Authorities will release additional information pending results from the autopsy and official identification.
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