Avondale, Arizona, January 16, 2026
The Avondale Police Department has identified a person of interest in the investigation of 21-year-old Isabella Comas’s disappearance, who was last seen on January 13, 2026. Her phone was found at a local recycling plant, prompting a broader search and the issuing of a Turquoise Alert for her safe recovery. Authorities urge the public to assist in the investigation as crucial evidence emerges.
Avondale, Arizona. The Avondale Police Department has identified a person of interest in the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of 21-year-old Isabella Comas. Comas, who was last seen on January 13, 2026, became the subject of a widespread search after her phone was discovered in a local recycling plant. The identification of a person of interest marks a significant development in the efforts to locate her.
Investigation Uncovers Critical Evidence
Authorities confirmed Thursday that Isabella Comas’s phone was located within a recycling facility, a crucial piece of evidence now being analyzed by investigators. The discovery has intensified the focus of the Avondale Police Department as they work to piece together the events leading to Comas’s disappearance. Her last known whereabouts were in Avondale, and concerns for her safety have grown since she was reported missing earlier this week.
The Avondale Police Department announced the identification of a person of interest on Thursday, January 15, 2026. While the identity of this individual has not been publicly released, law enforcement officials are actively pursuing all leads connected to this person and their potential involvement in Comas’s case. The investigation is ongoing, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Turquoise Alert Issued for Isabella Comas
In a critical development to broaden the search, the Arizona Department of Public Safety has issued a Turquoise Alert for Isabella Comas. This State-level alert system is specifically designed for missing endangered persons, including tribal members, who are under the age of 65 and meet certain activation criteria. The conditions for activation include the investigating law enforcement agency having exhausted all available local resources, the person having gone missing under unexplained or suspicious circumstances, and a belief that the missing person is in danger or peril.
The Turquoise Alert, also known as “Emily’s Law,” aims to provide immediate information to the public through various resources, such as the Emergency Alert System (EAS), Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA), Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) vehicle messaging system boards, and social media. This widespread dissemination ensures that critical details about Isabella Comas’s description and last known information reach a large audience across Arizona, encouraging public assistance in her safe recovery. This alert system bridges a gap between Amber Alerts, which are for abducted children, and SAFE Alerts (formerly Silver Alerts), which are for missing individuals 65 and older or with cognitive disabilities.
Public’s Role in Missing Persons Cases
The public’s cooperation remains vital in missing persons investigations, particularly when alerts like the Turquoise Alert are active. Authorities emphasize that any detail, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, could provide the breakthrough needed to locate Isabella Comas. Community members are encouraged to review the information shared through the alert system and report any sightings or pertinent information directly to the Avondale Police Department.
The discovery of a missing person’s phone in an unusual location like a recycling plant often provides investigators with critical forensic evidence and a timeline of events. Such findings can help determine the last movements of the individual and potentially identify individuals who may have been involved in the disappearance or handling of the phone. Police typically process such evidence carefully for fingerprints, DNA, and any data that can be recovered, even if the device appears damaged. The location where the phone was found can also indicate areas of interest for physical searches.
Avondale authorities are meticulously examining all available information, including surveillance footage, witness statements, and forensic evidence from the phone and other potential scenes. The focus remains on safely locating Isabella Comas and understanding the full circumstances of her disappearance. Law enforcement continues to work diligently, following established protocols for missing persons cases and utilizing all available resources to bring her home.
The community of Avondale and surrounding areas remain hopeful for Isabella Comas’s safe return. The police department has reiterated its commitment to transparency throughout the investigation, providing updates as significant developments occur, while also balancing the need to protect the integrity of the ongoing inquiry.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the latest development in the disappearance of Isabella Comas?
- The Avondale Police Department has identified a person of interest in the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of 21-year-old Isabella Comas. Her phone was also discovered in a recycling plant.
- When was Isabella Comas last seen?
- Isabella Comas was last seen on January 13, 2026.
- What crucial piece of evidence was found?
- Isabella Comas’s phone was located within a recycling facility, which is a crucial piece of evidence in the investigation.
- What is a Turquoise Alert?
- A Turquoise Alert is a State-level alert system in Arizona designed for missing endangered persons, including tribal members, who are under the age of 65 and meet specific activation criteria. These criteria include the law enforcement agency having exhausted local resources, suspicious circumstances, and a belief that the person is in danger or peril.
- Why was a Turquoise Alert issued for Isabella Comas?
- A Turquoise Alert was issued for Isabella Comas by the Arizona Department of Public Safety to broaden the search and alert the public across Arizona, given her status as a missing endangered person.
Key Details in Isabella Comas Case
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Missing Person | Isabella Comas, 21 years old |
| Last Seen | January 13, 2026 |
| Location of Disappearance | Avondale, Arizona |
| Key Evidence | Isabella Comas’s phone found in a recycling plant |
| Investigation Status | Person of interest identified, investigation ongoing |
| Public Alert | Turquoise Alert issued (State-level) |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
