CONCORD — The Concord Police Department is investigating the death of 18-year-old Yadira Hernandez Castro, whose body was found Monday evening following an extensive, multi-agency search. Castro, a resident of Concord, had been reported missing a day earlier after she failed to return home, sparking urgent concern from her family and authorities.
Police said Castro was located at approximately 5:30 p.m. on Monday, February 2, 2026, after a coordinated land search involving the Concord Police Department and the Concord Fire Department. Officers confirmed her identity shortly after she was found, and her family was notified. The discovery brought a heartbreaking end to a search effort that had continued for more than a day.
According to authorities, Castro was reported missing around 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, February 1, when she did not return home after spending time with a friend the night before. Her parents told police she left home on Saturday, January 31, to visit a friend and was expected back by 8 p.m. When she did not arrive and could not be located, her family contacted police.
Investigators said Castro was reportedly intoxicated and was last seen leaving her friend’s residence on Pine Street NW around 10:30 p.m. Her parents stated they last spoke with her by phone at approximately 10:50 p.m. Police later obtained surveillance video showing Castro walking near Academy Avenue NW and Glenn Street NW at 12:27 a.m. early Sunday morning.
Using surveillance footage and the last known location of Castro’s cell phone, police expanded the search and requested assistance from the Concord Fire Department’s land search team, K9 units, and infrared drone resources. A first land search was conducted Sunday from about 4:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., but Castro was not found. Search efforts resumed early Monday morning with a second, more focused operation.
During Monday’s search, officers located a deceased individual matching Castro’s description. Based on preliminary findings, investigators believe alcohol consumption and extreme cold temperatures may have contributed to her death. Police said there is no evidence of foul play at this time, though the investigation remains ongoing. The state medical examiner will determine the official cause of death.
