On July 27, the Santa Cruz Police Department concluded their search for Madyson “Maddy” Middleton. At approximately 7:55 p.m., detectives located the body of a child matching Maddy’s description. It was found in a dumpster at the Tannery Arts Center complex at 1030 River Street. The official cause and manner of death will be determined at a pending autopsy by the Santa Cruz County Coroner. As of July 29, that information had not been made public.
The Santa Cruz Police Department was deeply saddened to announce the discovery. They commenced their search when she was reported missing from the Tannery Arts Center, 1030 River Street at 6:08 p.m. on July, 26. She was last seen late Sunday afternoon and her image was captured on video while she was riding her white Razor scooter.
The eight year old girl became the center of an intense search after she had been reported missing. Representing Santa Cruz Police, Joyce Blaschke stated that the FBI was contacted and within hours 50 agents arrived to set up a command center and assist in the search. A specially trained, scent-specific K-9 team was also requested to search the San Lorenzo River levee and the main beach. The Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Team assisted by conducting a full search of the San Lorenzo River waterway, and levees using watercraft, aircraft and foot teams. This part of the search was conducted on July 27 during daylight hours.
Chief Kevin Vogel thanks all of the law enforcement officers who assisted in the search. Chief Vogel acknowledged that Sheriff Jim Hart and his Search and Rescue team tirelessly searched miles of trails, woods, waterways and buildings in hopes of locating Maddy and to bring her safely home.
The San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office also dedicated support personnel in the search. FBI’s Special Agent in Charge Malcolm Palmore contributed personnel to the effort. The American Red Cross was behind the scene to provide food for the first responders during the investigation and search for Maddy. “In just over 24 hours, the case had been solved,” said District Attorney Jeffrey S. Rosell.
The community of investigators and members of the public who stepped up to distribute flyers have demonstrated how much our communities care for each other. Deep sympathy, support and prayers are being offered for Maddy Middleton’s family.
In the initial phase of Maddy’s case, Police focused on a search for her and an investigation, when they reached the 24 hour mark of her disappearance, they transitioned the investigation into a recovery and forensic effort.
When Maddy’s body was discovered at the bottom of a large dumpster-sized recycle bin on the ground floor of the apartment complex, it was clear that someone had tried to conceal the body. The body was found disguised and concealed so that it was not obvious or easily discovered.
Arrested was a 15 year-old male suspect who was standing near the location of the dumpster when the body was discovered. Detectives sealed off the suspect’s residence at the Tannery complex; obtained a search warrant for the apartment, and interviewed him into the early morning hours.
During the night, detectives discovered evidence that linked the suspect to the crime. Found were some of Maddy’s belongings, witness statements and video evidence.
It was reported that Maddy and the suspect were acquaintances. They both resided at the Tannery Arts Center Complex. The evidence indicates that Maddy was lured to the suspect’s apartment and she went willingly. Detectives determined from evidence that Maddy was murdered inside of the suspect’s apartment prior to the time of the initial call to the police on July 27th at 6:08 p.m.
Regretfully; Maddy could not have been rescued.
It was determined from the evidence that the suspect acted alone. He is currently under arrest for murder and was in custody at the Santa Cruz County Juvenile Detention Facility.
On July 29, District Attorney Jeff Rosell filed charges against Adrian Jerry Gonzalez for the sexual assault and murder of Madyson Middleton. Rosell expressed his sympathy for the family and the community of mourners. He said “during these tragic times, our thoughts and prayers are with Madyson Middleton, her family, her friends and the entire Santa Cruz Community.”
Adrian Jerry Gonzalez was charged as an adult with murder, rape and other sexual assault-related offenses. “Based on these charges, Gonzalez faces life in prison if convicted,” said Rosell. The facts of the case will be revealed during the course of the legal proceedings and the charge document is available through the Santa Cruz Superior Court.
The Santa Cruz Police Department is very thankful for all the assistance received from the first responders who helped with the search and investigation of the case. They express their gratitude to all of the community members who offered support and posted flyers to assist the investigation. They also thank the American Red Cross who fed all of the responders that worked so tirelessly in hope of bringing Maddy safely home.
On Monday, there were fliers posted in many storefronts throughout Santa Cruz County showing Maddy’s picture and description. The next day, the heartbroken residents who had been on the alert for Maddy, were mourning the news that the search had ended.
Faced by this tragic death, many people may experience deep sadness and confusion. Violent death can trigger personal concerns about loss. If you or your child experiences any of these emotions you may want counseling support. Since Maddy would have started the fourth grade at DeLaveaga Elementary School, grief counseling is being provided there by the County Mental Health Department. For information, call 429-3410 extension 220.
