Leon Hayes was last seen on February 2, 2022, near Mesa Farms in the Shiprock, New Mexico area, on the Navajo Nation. His case remains unresolved years later.

His sister, Cindy Hayes, has spoken about the painful reality many Native families face: "Without a body, without proof that it's a homicide, criminal investigators can't get in, and it kind of falls on us as a family to look for a loved one." That burden has meant Leon's relatives have had to lead much of the search themselves, with little institutional support.

His family — including relative Germaine Russell — has continued to show up at MMIP rallies and community events in Farmington and across the region, standing alongside other families still waiting for answers about missing loved ones. Leon's case remains open, and his family continues to hope for his safe return and for justice.

AC2026: Travel Fund for the Family of Leon Hayes

Team Members