AUSTIN, TX – The disappearance of nine-year-old Eva Marie Gonzalez has sparked serious concerns among law enforcement and the local community after troubling details emerged about her family situation. Despite her absence, Eva was never reported missing by her mother, Virginia Gonzalez, who has provided inconsistent accounts to relatives. Investigators have revealed that none of Virginia’s children are enrolled in school, raising further alarms about the family’s circumstances.
Authorities have released photos of Eva, including an age-progressed image depicting what she might look like today, in hopes of gathering leads on her whereabouts. Virginia Gonzalez, 33, faces charges of child injury following the discovery of Eva’s seven-year-old sister in a dire state of neglect. The child was found by her grandmother on April 3, malnourished and confined to a bedroom closet. This alarming situation has heightened concerns about Eva’s safety.
The Austin Police Department’s Missing Persons Unit is actively searching for Eva, motivated by the distressing conditions in which her sibling was discovered. According to a police affidavit, the seven-year-old sister survived on meager rations of one corn dog and half a cup of water daily, enduring weeks of confinement. The child weighed only 29 pounds when admitted to the hospital, highlighting the severity of her malnutrition.
Virginia Gonzalez’s arrest followed a two-week investigation by U.S. Marshals. Yet the mystery of Eva’s disappearance remains unsolved, leaving many questions unanswered. Community members and authorities alike are puzzled as to why Eva’s absence went unnoticed for so long.
Family law attorney Michelle Lock, not involved in the case, expressed disbelief at the system’s failure to protect the children. “How did every checkpoint and system we have in place let this happen?” she questioned. Lock voiced concerns that the search for Eva might tragically end in the discovery of a body, although she holds out hope for a different outcome.
Lock urges the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicions of child endangerment. “If something seems off, it’s better to report it,” she said, emphasizing the potential to save lives through community action. Her call to action reflects a broader appeal for public involvement in safeguarding vulnerable children.
The Texas Child Protective Services (CPS) has deemed its investigations confidential and has not disclosed whether they have previously intervened with the Gonzalez family. Meanwhile, the search for Eva continues, with authorities appealing to the public for any information that could aid in locating her.