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Chicago Couple Missing in Mexico Found Deceased
28 Jun
Summary
- Couple Zafar Padamsee Mawani and Guillermo Jafett Hidalgo Ortiz were found deceased.
- They relocated to Mexico to care for Zafar's mother with Alzheimer's.
- Their disappearance highlighted Mexico's ongoing missing persons crisis.

A Chicago couple, Zafar Padamsee Mawani and Guillermo Jafett Hidalgo Ortiz, have been confirmed among bodies recovered during an investigation south of Mexico City. The pair had moved to Mexico to care for Mawani's mother, who has Alzheimer's disease.
Their disappearance in May after a meeting with contractors investigating a stair lift installation led to a widespread search. Family members expressed concern after noticing unusual bank account activity. The investigation ultimately led authorities to a remote mountainous area where four bodies were found.
DNA testing confirmed the identities of Mawani and Hidalgo Ortiz. Their case tragically underscores Mexico's significant missing persons crisis, with over 135,000 officially listed as missing. This situation often necessitates families conducting their own searches due to slow investigations.
The couple, both 56, were remembered by friends as kind and devoted. Mawani was described as thoughtful and reliable, while Hidalgo Ortiz was known for his warmth and love of bringing people together. Their move was intended to provide a quieter life centered around family.