Tracy Melton was 32 when she was last seen in Stockton, California, on May 6, 1998. Remains found near a Stockton highway in 2003 were later identified as hers, but the family says they were not notified promptly about that identification, a delay that caused deep frustration and grief.

Investigators long suspected Melton was a victim of the pair known as the Speed Freak Killers, Wesley Shermantine and Loren Herzog, because her case had similarities to other victims linked to them. Shermantine remains on death row for multiple murders; Herzog took his own life after learning Shermantine was cooperating with authorities. Bounty hunter Leonard Padilla, who had been looking into the killers, became involved at the family’s request.

The San Joaquin County Sheriff acknowledged the notification failure and said new procedures would be implemented. Melton’s daughter Bobbie Carter and sister Sharon Melton continue to press for answers and justice. Did anyone in Stockton know Tracy or have information about where she was seen in 1998?