Human remains discovered near Picher, Oklahoma, have been identified as those of Aubrey Dameron, a transgender woman and Cherokee Nation citizen who had been missing since March 9, 2019. Dameron was 25 years old at the time of her disappearance, and her family sought answers for nearly six years.
The remains were found on January 31, 2025, after the Quapaw Nation Marshal Service responded to reports about human bones located near South 565 Road and East 30 Road. Forensic anthropologists confirmed the identity through comparisons with dental and medical records. The identification was made public just days later, leading to collective mourning and renewed attention on the case.
According to Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr., "Aubrey, who was extremely proud of her Cherokee culture, had a bright future, and her young life was cut too short." He expressed his condolences, noting the collective grief felt by the community. "Our Marshals led many searches for her, erected billboards to help find her and helped raise awareness on her case and others over these past few years," he added.
Dameron was last seen leaving her family home near Grove at approximately 3:30 A.M., dressed completely in black and reportedly intended to meet someone but left her purse and medications behind. This detail raised concerns about her safety and sparked numerous searches throughout the region.
The investigation surrounding her disappearance involved multiple agencies—including the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service, the FBI, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs, highlighting the efforts made over the years to locate her. Reports indicate these agencies have conducted interviews and followed leads, yet the circumstances of her death remain unknown.
Aubrey's family, including her aunt Pam Smith and uncle Christian Fencer, have been vocal advocates throughout the search, voicing the fears and frustrations surrounding missing Indigenous individuals. Pam was particularly impactful when she stated on the Dateline: Missing in America podcast, "It’s high-risk to be Native and missing, and high-risk to be transgender and missing," shedding light on the unique vulnerabilities faced by those who share her demographic. This notion complicates the already challenging narrative of missing persons cases.
The grief of her family has encapsulated the emotional weight of her case. They have held vigils and public memorials, continuing to promote awareness not only for Aubrey but also for the larger epidemic of missing and murdered Indigenous people which is affecting communities across the nation.
On February 5, 2025, the Quapaw Nation Marshal Service commented on the incident, acknowledging the long wait for answers and the emotional turmoil faced by local families throughout the past years. The organization also continues its investigation, exploring all possible leads to understand the events surrounding her disappearance and death.
Chief Hoskin’s statement reiterated the community’s collective sorrow and determination, as he stated, "We know her family is in mourning, and Deputy Chief and I, and the entire tribe, offer our condolences and support to her family and friends during this difficult time. Rest in peace dear Aubrey." This sentiment resonates deeply, capturing the struggle for justice and healing within Indigenous communities.
Everyone connected to the investigation is urged to come forward with any information related to Aubrey Dameron's case. Those with insights can contact the Quapaw Nation Marshal Service or local dispatch to assist law enforcement as they pursue answers.
Despite the tragedy of her story, this case has sparked renewed dialogue around the broader issue of safety for Indigenous individuals, particularly highlighting the risks faced by trans women and Native communities. Aubrey’s legacy serves as both a painful reminder and a clarion call for action against the disparities and injustices inherent within existing systems.