Approaching the one-year anniversary of Justin Urrutia’s disappearance, his family and friends are still struggling with the lack of answers.
On November 6, 2023, Justin, an express pool company owner, left his Sugar Land home on a confusing journey across Texas. His car was found two days later, crashed on a remote road in Pecos County. Inside were his phone, wallet, keys and
The Missing Person Poster of Justin Urrutia Bible—but no sign of Justin.
His mother, Vicki Urrutia, still recalls the heartbreaking details regarding the timeline of his car’s movements through tolls, gas stations and truck stops. Despite these clues, law enforcement has failed to have a breakthrough in the case.
“As far as law enforcement is concerned, he hasn’t committed any crimes..but is listed in the National Missing Persons database,” Vicki said.
One of the most frustrating aspects for Vicki has been the lack of effort from both the police and media. Despite early national media coverage, the case has faded from public attention. Vicki is dismayed because no significant searches or investigations were conducted beyond the immediate region where Justin’s car was discovered. Wanting more answers about her son, she even resorted to ordering luminol, a chemical that glows when mixed with blood, online to check the car for blood herself, frustrated by the slow pace of the investigation.
Friends of Justin are praying for his safe return “he is always on my mind…I miss him everyday and just pray he is alive well and happy”, Reina Reign commented.
Justin had no indications or signs of planning on leaving during his psychology appointment that same day.
“My number one suspicion would be some type of secret. Something about his lifestyle that goes against how he was raised,” said Angie McDonald, a psychology professor at Palm Beach Atlantic University.
Potential mental health challenges raise questions about whether Justin intentionally vanished or was struggling with "personal demons" that led to his disappearance.
The case is further complicated by connections to the disappearance of Jason Landry, another young man whose automobile was discovered, abandoned in a similar manner, three years ago. Vicki has spoken with Landry's father, Reverend Landry, but the similarities between the two situations only increased her uneasiness.
Despite the constant frustration, Vicki continues her search for answers, using her limited social media presence to reach out to the public, “someone, somewhere has to know something…I don’t even know if this will go anywhere that will help. Let’s hope it does.”
As the anniversary approaches, questions still remain: Why have the authorities and media seemingly moved on? Authorities refused to comment. In a time where missing persons cases often generate widespread attention, Justin’s case appears to have been forgotten.
His mother, still grasping for any form of hope, reminds us that “it is not against the law to disappear,” but the pain and uncertainty for those left behind are far from lawful.
Vicki continues to seek justice and closure. The absence of ongoing media coverage and investigative efforts is a distressing issue. Until the authorities make progress on Justin's case or the public comes forward with any information, the mystery of his disappearance remains unsolved.
Anyone with information is urged to contact law enforcement or Vicki herself at (713) 899-1994 or vickiurrutia@gmail.com, as Vicki and several friends and family remain hopeful that they will see Justin again.
By Bella Archer
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