LONGMONT, Colo. – Police say a woman who went missing in Longmont earlier this year is now believed to be dead and they’re offering a reward as they search for a person of interest in the case.
Rita Gutierrez-Garcia was last seen early in the morning of March 18 in the parking of 3’s bar, 333 Main St. in Longmont.
Extensive searches have turned up no signs of Gutierrez-Garcia and police said on Sunday that due to the circumstances they no longer believe her to be alive.
Police said there is a person of interest in the woman’s disappearance but officers did not publicly identify the person. In a press conference Monday morning, police said the person of interest is someone known to the department; officers don't want to release any identifying information in an effort to protect their investigation.
There is no danger to the public, police said.
The investigation remains active and police said they continue to collect evidence and follow up on leads.
Gutierrez-Garcia is described as being 5 feet 7 inches tall and 140 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes. She has tattoos on both arms, one of her shoulders and her feet and has piercings in her ears and tongue. She was last seen wearing a black long-sleeved shirt and with black leggings.
Police are offering a $10,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest or the discovery of Gutierrez-Garcia’s body.
Tips can be made by phone at 303-774-3700 or by email at policetipline@longmontcolorado.gov.