Colombian authorities have uncovered a body during the ongoing search for a U.S. flight attendant who has been missing since last weekend. Medellin’s Mayor, Federico Gutiérrez, announced the grim discovery in a post on social media, noting that the body was found between the municipalities of Jericó and Puente Iglesias in the northeastern region of the country.
The mayor indicated that the deceased is likely Eric Fernando Gutierrez Molina, a 32-year-old flight attendant with American Airlines from Texas, who went missing while on a layover in Medellín. Gutiérrez stated, “There is a very high probability that it is this person. The lifeless body is being transported to legal medicine in Medellín for identification and recognition.” He expressed condolences to Gutierrez Molina’s family and friends, revealing that he personally delivered the distressing news to the victim’s father, who is currently in Medellín.
In his announcement, Mayor Gutiérrez also raised concerns about possible foul play. He mentioned that authorities have identified “very clear leads on those responsible” and suggested that the individuals involved should be pursued through extradition processes. The mayor has kept the U.S. ambassador to Colombia informed about the developments in the case, although the State Department has yet to respond to inquiries regarding the situation.
Gutierrez Molina’s family is grappling with the distressing news. His sister, Mayra Gutierrez, shared that she last communicated with him in the early hours of Sunday, noting he had been out with another crew member. The family confirmed his employment with American Airlines, which stated that it is “actively engaged with local law enforcement officials in their investigation and doing all we can to support our team member’s family during this time,” but did not comment specifically on Gutierrez Molina.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities remain focused on determining the circumstances surrounding his disappearance and the events leading to the recently discovered body.
