Darla Kay McCormick was 44 when she left her job at the Eddy County Detention Center in Carlsbad, New Mexico, in the early morning of October 2, 2008. Coworkers reported she left before her shift ended at about 2:30 a.m. and appeared upset. Around 8:00 a.m. that morning she made brief contact with family by email and phone; that was the last confirmed communication.

Investigators found her white 2004 Chrysler Sebring at home along with her purse, keys, checkbook, money, ID and work uniform, suggesting she had returned and changed clothes. Her cell phone’s last activity traced to a tower near the Walmart on South Canal Street in southern Carlsbad. Her mountain bike was missing from the residence. She had recently ended a relationship with a coworker and may have been distressed, though that has not been confirmed as connected to her disappearance.

No significant leads have been reported and the case remains unsolved. If anyone knew Darla, saw her after October 2, 2008, or has information about her movements that morning, please come forward.