Authorities in Arizona have confirmed that Maleeka “Molly” Boone, the 8-year-old Navajo girl who was found dead after going missing in January, may have been struck by a passing vehicle. The FBI’s Phoenix Field Office, in cooperation with the Navajo Nation Police Department, said on February 25 that Boone was struck by a large vehicle, possibly a pickup truck, on the evening of January 15. Investigators do not believe the incident was intentional, suggesting the driver was unaware they hit Boone.
Boone was last seen playing in his coalmine neighborhood on the Navajo Nation on the afternoon of January 15. When she failed to return home, her family reported her missing around 6:00 pm. Officials issued a Turquoise Alert, Arizona’s rapid notification system for missing or endangered persons, especially those in tribal communities. Boone’s description was shared with the public, detailing his appearance and the clothing he was wearing at the time of his disappearance.
The next morning, January 16, Boone’s body was found in a field in the Coalmine Navajo Housing Authority neighborhood. In response, law enforcement placed the area under lockdown while investigators worked to gather details about the circumstances surrounding her death. A command station was set up at the coalmine, and authorities began a relentless search for any information that might shed light on what had happened to Boone.
More than a month later, investigators are asking for public assistance. Authorities are specifically looking for information about any vehicles that may have traveled on Cedar Loop Road between 5:50 pm and 6:20 pm on January 15, when Boone was last seen. A $25,000 reward is being offered by the FBI for information leading to further information regarding the circumstances surrounding his death.
The investigation is ongoing, and the FBI is urging anyone who may have relevant information to come forward. Those with tips can contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submit information online at tips.fbi.gov.
As the community grapples with the tragedy, the investigation continues, Boone’s family and authorities are demanding justice and answers regarding this young girl’s tragic death.