Santa Maria police searching for clues in cold case from 2007

Posted: Mar 3, 2010 4:39 PM by Monica Quintero
Updated: Mar 3, 2010 4:39 PM

It's considered a "cold case." The Santa Maria police department is asking for the public to help in hopes of getting new information. Jose Coria Junior was reported missing to police on September 8, 2007.

His family last saw him 2 days before that on September 6th. He was standing in front of his house at 10'clock that night, then vanished without a trace. Guillermo Hernandez, Jose's father said he doesn't want anyone to go through the same emotional ordeal. Jose would now be 23-years-old. He described his son as sincere, friendly and worked hard. Jose is the oldest of four children.

Meanwhile, police keep doing what they can to find new leads. Sergeant Terry Flaa, Santa Maria police, said, "One of the key factors of an investigation is interviewing people. That's why it's so important we want to get this out to the public in hopes someone will come forward with any bit of information. No matter how trivial one may think it is, it may mean a lot to us." Detectives said they do not believe he was affiliated with a gang. However, they did say he may have become involved in drugs. But right now, they don't know the extent of his involvement. Investigators also said they believe there are people out there who have information regarding Jose's disappearance. Sergeant Flaa said, "They could be hesitant to share with us for fear that they're going to get in trouble, fear of retaliation from other members of the community."

The family just keeps holding tight to their faith that their loved one will one day return. Police couldn't give an exact figure but they said numerous man hours and officers have worked this case. They're hoping someone knows something and will give them that critical information so they can bring closure to the family. Police said the most significant part of his disappearance is that he left everyday items at home such as his cell phone and wallet.