News Summary
Arizona has implemented a new ‘turquoise alert’ system to locate missing indigenous individuals following the tragic case of Emily Pike. This initiative aims to enhance public awareness and support for the urgent issue of missing and murdered indigenous persons. The alerts will function similarly to AMBER Alerts, disseminating crucial information through various media channels. Advocacy groups stress the importance of improved law enforcement responses and community collaboration, as 91 indigenous persons remain missing in the state. The system is part of broader efforts to increase support for indigenous communities amid rising concerns.
Arizona has launched a new system to help locate missing indigenous persons, known as the “turquoise alert” system, following the tragic case of Emily Pike, a 14-year-old indigenous girl who went missing and was later found dead. This announcement, made by Governor Hobbs and state leaders, aims to address the critical issue of missing and murdered indigenous individuals in the state.
Emily Pike, a member of the San Carlos Apache tribe, was reported missing in January 2025. Her remains were recovered in February 2025 near milepost 277 along U.S. 60, approximately 19 miles north of Globe, Arizona. The revelation of her death has heightened awareness about the alarming rates of missing and murdered indigenous women and children, prompting state authorities to take action.
The turquoise alert system will operate similarly to AMBER Alerts, releasing public notifications about missing indigenous persons when there is an element of danger or urgency. Notifications will be disseminated through various media channels, including television, radio, and potentially mobile alerts. This initiative is part of a broader effort to improve outreach and resources for the indigenous communities in Arizona.
The introduction of the turquoise alert system follows the recent passage of HB 2281, also known as “Emily’s Law,” which was signed into law in May 2025. This legislation aims to enhance the mechanisms available for reporting and addressing cases of missing indigenous individuals, thereby facilitating a more efficient response from law enforcement and community organizations.
Currently, there are 91 indigenous persons reported missing in Arizona, raising significant concerns about underreporting and inadequate responses to these cases. Advocacy groups have pointed out the systemic issues that contribute to the challenges faced by indigenous communities in addressing this ongoing crisis.
The Gila County Sheriff’s Office is collaborating with the FBI and the San Carlos Apache Tribal Police to form a task force that will focus on investigating Emily’s murder. The authorities are actively pursuing leads, with a reward of $75,000 being offered for information leading to an arrest in her case. The public is urged to submit any tips to the Gila County Sheriff’s Office regarding Emily Pike’s investigation.
In light of Emily Pike’s case, community activism has surged, culminating in a march for justice scheduled for March 18, 2025, at the Arizona State Capitol. This event aims to raise awareness about the ongoing crisis of missing and murdered indigenous individuals, encouraging community involvement and support.
Advocates emphasize the critical need for improved communication and coordination between law enforcement agencies and tribal communities to effectively address and resolve cases of missing indigenous individuals. The turquoise alert system represents a step toward amplifying the voices and concerns of indigenous communities, who have often felt marginalized in discussions surrounding public safety and law enforcement responses.
As the investigation into Emily Pike’s death remains ongoing, it has drawn national attention, underscoring the broader implications and challenges faced by indigenous communities. The turquoise alert system is a pivotal development in the collective efforts to enhance the safety and well-being of indigenous populations across Arizona.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Fox 10 Phoenix
- Wikipedia: Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women
- ABC 15
- Google Search: Emily Pike case
- AZ Family
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Missing Indigenous People
- Arizona Mirror
- Google News: Missing Indigenous People
