Authorities persist in their investigation surrounding the tragic death of Maleeka Boone, the 8-year-old girl from Arizona who was discovered lifeless on January 16.

The FBI Phoenix Field Office, in collaboration with the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigation, is at the forefront of this case. Meanwhile, local and state law enforcement agencies are actively lending their support to unravel the circumstances of her untimely demise, as highlighted by AZ Family.

According to previous reports from CrimeOnline, Maleeka’s body was discovered a day after she went missing from the Coalmine Navajo Housing Authority area, located near Tuba City. Her disappearance had prompted a swift response from the authorities.

In the wake of her vanishing, police issued a Turquoise Alert, known as “Emily’s Law,” aimed at locating missing Indigenous individuals under suspicious or unexplained situations. This law was enacted following the brutal murder of another young Native American girl, serving as a crucial tool in such investigations.

Family members reported their growing concern when Maleeka failed to return after an extended period, a behavior deemed unusual for her, according to Navajo police. Their worries led to the alert and subsequent search efforts.

That same afternoon, police found her deceased, but so far, had not revealed the cause of death. It’s unclear if foul play is suspected.

“This is our first tragedy that has come from a Turquoise Alert,” Rhonda Dequier, founder of the Missing in America Network, told FOX 10.

Advocates are now reportedly urging residents to take the alert seriously.

“We have received an outpouring of love as you all shared your memories and condolences with us regarding Maleeka “Mollie” Boone. Seeing the positive impact this sweet girl had on so many people, near and far, has helped lift each heavy heart,” the Navajo Police Department said on Facebook.

Meanwhile, a GoFundMe has been created to help the family with funeral and burial expenses.

Anyone with information about Mollie’s case contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or online at tips.fbi.gov, or the Navajo Police Department, Tuba City District, at 928-283-3111 or 928-283-3112.

[Feature Photo via the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigation]