Starr County, Texas — The search for 83-year-old Maria Lopez Zambrano has come to a heartbreaking end. The elderly Roma woman, who was reported missing on Sunday, April 13, was found dead after an extensive search launched by authorities and concerned community members.
Maria Zambrano, who suffered from cognitive impairment, was the subject of a Silver Alert issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety after she disappeared from her home at 405 N. Estrella Street in Roma around 7:52 p.m. on Sunday evening. She was last seen wearing a blue shirt and beige pants and was believed to be traveling in a black 2007 Ford 500 bearing a Mexican license plate (96ZCY).
Described as 5 feet tall, 150 pounds, with brown eyes and brown hair, Zambrano only spoke Spanish and was considered endangered due to her medical condition and age. Authorities feared that her disappearance posed a credible threat to her health and safety, prompting an urgent statewide call for help.
The Starr County Sheriff’s Office led the search efforts, urging the public to provide any information that might lead to Zambrano’s safe return. For days, loved ones and law enforcement worked tirelessly, hoping for a miracle.
Sadly, those hopes were dashed when authorities confirmed that Maria Zambrano had been found deceased. The details surrounding the circumstances of her death have not yet been released, and the investigation remains ongoing.
In a solemn statement, the Starr County Sheriff’s Office expressed their condolences to the Zambrano family and thanked the public for their support during the search.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to the family of Maria Zambrano during this time of unimaginable grief,” the statement read. “We appreciate the assistance of everyone who shared information and kept Mrs. Zambrano and her loved ones in their thoughts.”
The news has deeply affected the tight-knit Roma community, where Maria was known as a kind and gentle soul. Her disappearance and tragic death have sparked conversations about the vulnerability of elderly residents, particularly those facing cognitive challenges, and the need for continued awareness and support for families in similar situations.
Community members have taken to social media to offer condolences, share memories, and express heartbreak at the loss. Plans for a memorial or funeral service are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.
The Starr County Sheriff’s Office continues to ask anyone with additional information about Zambrano’s disappearance or the circumstances leading to her death to contact them at 956-487-5571.
As the community mourns, Maria Lopez Zambrano is remembered not only for the tragedy of her final days but for the love and kindness she shared throughout her life.