Authorities in Jal, New Mexico, are investigating the discovery of multiple human skulls at a local residence, with at least one potentially linked to a woman missing since 2019. The Lea County Sheriff’s Office reported that between 10 and 20 skulls were found during searches conducted earlier this month.
The investigation began on November 5, 2024, when a resident reported an unsettling encounter with 28-year-old Cecil Villanueva. The resident had offered Villanueva a ride, during which he allegedly made alarming statements and discarded objects from the vehicle that appeared to be human bones.
Officers searched the area where the driver reported the incident and discovered bone fragments near a convenience store, which a pathologist later confirmed as human remains.
Investigators noted that Villanueva’s residence on South 4th Street had been linked to rumors of human remains. With a search warrant, they returned to the property on November 6 and uncovered additional bone fragments, including parts of a skull and jawbone.
On November 9, a more comprehensive search of the property uncovered evidence of 10 to 20 human skulls. These remains have been transported to the Office of the Medical Investigator in Albuquerque for further analysis and potential identification.
The case has been closely tied to the disappearance of 43-year-old Angela McManes, who was last seen in May 2019. Her last known address was near Villanueva’s residence. Authorities are working diligently to determine any connection between the remains and McManes, as well as other possible victims.
McManus, a mother of three, disappeared without any trace, according to her sister Kris Kelton, who shared this with a local media outlet.
Kelton said that the family is waiting for the final results before drawing any conclusions, adding that they only know what has been shared on social media.
Villanueva reportedly told investigators that he purchased the remains online. As of now, he has not been charged in connection with the skulls but is in custody at the Lea County Detention Center on an unrelated misdemeanor charge of criminal trespass.
The discovery has raised concerns among residents. Sheriff Corey Helton assured the community, stating, “I know our viewers are concerned, but I can tell you, we don’t have a serial killer walking around.”
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities seeking to identify the origins of the skulls and any potential connections to missing person cases. The public is urged to provide relevant information to the Lea County Sheriff’s Office.
Jal is located in southeastern New Mexico, close to the Texas border. It lies within Lea County and is approximately 40 miles south of Hobbs, its largest city.
