TUBA CITY, Ariz. — Authorities have confirmed the tragic death of 8-year-old Maleeka Boone, who was reported missing on tribal lands in northern Arizona. She was last seen in the Coalmine Canyon area, approximately 240 miles north of Phoenix, leading to considerable concern within the community.
A spokesperson for the FBI stated that they are currently conducting an investigation alongside tribal police but declined to provide details surrounding her death. The Navajo Police Department has also stated that they do not have further information at this time.
In a heartfelt social media message, Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren expressed his sorrow over Maleeka's death, describing it as a heavy burden on his heart.
The disappearance of Maleeka prompted a Turquoise Alert, a specific alert system designed to assist in locating missing Native Americans. This tragic incident has drawn attention to ongoing issues affecting Native American communities, particularly concerning the alarming rates of disappearances and violent deaths.
Legislation in Arizona, known as 'Emily’s Law', was formed to tackle these issues and raises awareness about Indigenous missing persons. It was named in memory of Emily Pike, whose remains were found earlier this year, igniting activism aimed at spotlighting the struggles faced by Native American populations. This recent tragedy further emphasizes the urgent need for continued efforts in addressing the high rates of violence and disappearance in these communities.
A spokesperson for the FBI stated that they are currently conducting an investigation alongside tribal police but declined to provide details surrounding her death. The Navajo Police Department has also stated that they do not have further information at this time.
In a heartfelt social media message, Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren expressed his sorrow over Maleeka's death, describing it as a heavy burden on his heart.
The disappearance of Maleeka prompted a Turquoise Alert, a specific alert system designed to assist in locating missing Native Americans. This tragic incident has drawn attention to ongoing issues affecting Native American communities, particularly concerning the alarming rates of disappearances and violent deaths.
Legislation in Arizona, known as 'Emily’s Law', was formed to tackle these issues and raises awareness about Indigenous missing persons. It was named in memory of Emily Pike, whose remains were found earlier this year, igniting activism aimed at spotlighting the struggles faced by Native American populations. This recent tragedy further emphasizes the urgent need for continued efforts in addressing the high rates of violence and disappearance in these communities.
