WHITERIVER— Authorities have confirmed that the human remains discovered near the Knots Landing community have been identified as Challistia Colelay, a 16-year-old girl who had reportedly been missing since October 16.
According to the White Mountain Apache Police Department, the remains were located on November 3, 2025, near the Knots Landing community on Fort Apache Tribal Land, in Whiteriver. Responding officers, assisted by federal agents, secured the scene and began processing evidence.
Investigators initially described the deceased as a tall, thin individual with long brown hair, wearing size 8½ black Converse high-tops, black-and-white plaid pants, and a tan shirt. Authorities confirmed the remains were identified as Challistia Colelay “Tia”, and family notification was completed.
In a joint Facebook statement, the BIA Fort Apache Agency and the White Mountain Apache Tribal Police wrote that they will “bring closure to Challistia Colelay’s family and community and justice to those responsible.”
No known Turquoise Alert was issued in connection with Colelay’s disappearance. It’s up to the reporting law enforcement agency to notify DPS and request the Alert.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information related to the case is urged to contact the BIA Missing and Murdered Unit (MMU) Hotline at 1-833-560-2065, email OJS_MMU@bia.gov, or text keyword BIAMMU with their tip to 847411.
Community members may also contact the White Mountain Apache Police Dispatch Center directly at (928) 338-4942.
