JAY — Vermont State Police discovered human remains in Jay on Wednesday during an investigation into a migrant woman who went missing in northern Vermont in late January 2025.
Members of VSP’s Search and Rescue Team and North County Search Dogs located the remains late Wednesday afternoon, October 29, 2025. The location was secured and the state police Bureau of Criminal Investigations responded to examine the scene and collect evidence.
The remains were transported Thursday to the Chief Medical Examiner’s Office in Burlington to confirm identity and determine the cause and manner of death. The identity of the deceased is unavailable at this time.
Vermont State Police became involved in the case October 20 following a request for assistance from U.S. Border Patrol regarding their ongoing investigation into the missing migrant. Reports at the time indicated the woman was attempting to cross from Vermont into Canada when she became separated from her group in late January.
Border Patrol recently discovered personal effects belonging to the missing individual in VSP’s patrol area and referred the case to state police for further investigation.
VSP has worked closely with U.S. Customs and Border Protection on the ongoing case. Members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police have pursued the investigation on the Canadian side of the border and have been in contact with U.S. authorities.
Questions about the initial missing-persons case should be directed to USCBP and the RCMP. Vermont State Police cannot provide details about the investigation prior to VSP’s involvement earlier this month.
No additional details are currently available. State police will provide updates as the investigation proceeds.
