New video evidence in case of Jacinto City man missing since 2019

JACINTO CITY, Texas — Jacinto City police are releasing a brand new surveillance video in the case of a man who went missing on New Year’s Eve in 2019.

Mariano Medina-Funes was 36 on the time and his household instructed KHOU 11 News they’re determined for solutions.

“Devastating – that’s the phrase. It’s heartbreaking,” Medina-Funes’ sister, Victoria Acosta, stated.

He was final seen outdoors his house advanced on Challenger 7 Drive. Acosta stated she talked to her brother earlier that night.

“He instructed me he purchased fireworks so he may go and play with my youngsters,” she stated.

However, what was purported to be a celebratory night time, shortly turned to panic.

“He known as his common-life spouse, and he made the assertion, ‘They bought me, they bought me, and I need assistance,’ after which the cellphone hung up,” Lt. Dennis Walker stated.

Walker was the unique detective on the case. He believes there was foul play and stated the automotive concerned is a key piece of evidence.

“This automotive could be very distinctive: It’s a black Cadillac with chrome wheels,” he stated.

A half-hour after that automotive drove away with Medina-Funes, it made a cease at a comfort retailer. Detectives bought their first have a look at a man they’re calling an individual of curiosity.

“We want your assist,” Walker stated.

He’s hoping the video will generate suggestions and get assist for a household that simply desires to know the reality about what occurred to their family members.

“Not realizing if he’s alive or if he’s useless … it actually hurts,” Acosta stated.

Several businesses have been engaged on the case. The Jacinto City Police Department stated it has been assisted by the Houston Police Department and the Texas Rangers.

If you acknowledge the automotive or the individual in the video, you are requested to name Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS (8477).