FBI, Imperial County Deputies Return to Search Sites in T’Neya Tovar Investigation

Authorities continue to investigate the disappearance and death of 17-year-old T’Neya Tovar, the Hemet teen who was reported missing on December 1.

On Thursday, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Imperial County Sheriff’s Department returned to a home in Salton City where Tovar was allegedly last seen, as well as to the area where some of her remains were discovered.

More than two months have passed since Tovar was last seen traveling toward Thermal. Since then, federal agents have been assisting local deputies in an ongoing investigation that has included multiple searches at a home on Harlequin Court. Investigators were seen entering the residence with tools and K-9 units, while others canvassed the surrounding desert landscape.

Imari Kariotis, a Salton City resident who lives just minutes from the home, said the increased law enforcement presence has left neighbors unsettled.

A video circulating on social media shows an unidentified man briefly detained in handcuffs outside the home and questioned by deputies. Authorities have not confirmed the circumstances surrounding the detention.

NBC Palm Springs has reached out to both the FBI and the Imperial County Sheriff’s Department for additional details. Officials confirmed that, at this time, no suspects have been identified or arrested in connection with the case.

The FBI is asking anyone with information about Tovar’s whereabouts or the events surrounding her disappearance to contact authorities.

We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.