Home / Crime and Justice / Remains of Missing Woman Discovered in California Riverbed
Remains of Missing Woman Discovered in California Riverbed
1 Oct
Summary
- Skeletal remains identified as Zyanya Valora, missing since June 2024
- Valora had autism and was considered at-risk when she disappeared
- Cause of death pending further analysis by medical examiner
On September 29, 2025, authorities confirmed that human skeletal remains discovered in a California riverbed belonged to Zyanya Valora, a 21-year-old woman who had been missing for over a year. Valora, who was diagnosed with autism, was reported missing on June 25, 2024, after leaving her home in Ojai Valley in the early hours of the morning.
The Ventura County Sheriff's Office stated that a local conservancy organization was removing invasive plants in the Ventura Riverbed on September 24, 2025, when the suspected remains were found. After an investigation, the Ventura County Medical Examiner's Office positively identified the remains as Valora's. However, the cause and manner of her death are still pending further analysis.
Valora's family had been searching for her since her disappearance, offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to her safe return. The "Find Zyanya Valora" group expressed deep sorrow over the tragic news, thanking the community for their support and dedication during the 15-month search. While the discovery brings closure, it is a heartbreaking end to the family's long ordeal.
