Texas authorities have increased the reward for information leading to an arrest over the 1995 murder of El Paso woman Celia Loya to $6,000.
The temporary reward was announced by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), which said it would remain available until the next featured Texas Rangers cold case is announced.
Loya, 30, was found dead inside her home on Lake Champlain Street in El Paso on 7 February 1995. Her husband discovered her body on the bathroom floor after becoming concerned when he could not contact her.
She had telephoned colleagues at American Sling that morning to say she would be late for work, but never arrived. Investigators said she had suffered severe injuries to her head and body and died from extensive blood loss caused by blunt-force trauma.
Signs of an apparent struggle were found in the living room. Detectives have since pursued several leads, interviewed people connected to the case and examined evidence from the scene, but no arrest has been made.
The El Paso Police Department and Texas Rangers are now appealing for anyone who may have seen suspicious activity near Loya’s home that morning to come forward. Investigators are also seeking information about her movements and whereabouts before her death, as well as details about anyone who may have witnessed events surrounding the killing.
DPS said the higher reward is only available for information submitted before the next Texas Rangers cold case is featured. The standard reward for information leading to an arrest in the case is up to $3,000.
Tips eligible for the reward can be given anonymously to Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-252-TIPS (8477). Information can also be submitted online by selecting “Cold Cases Featured” and “Cold Case” in the relevant crime and offence sections.
