The mother of a murdered New Mexico man is hoping this year will bring answers and her son’s killer to justice.
While manning her booth Friday at the Exhibit Hall at CrimeCon Denver, Vangie Randall-Shorty shared with CrimeOnline that it has been five years since her son, 23-year-old Zachariah Juwaun Shorty, was murdered.
She’s at CrimeCon to spread awareness about her son’s murder, and hoping a reward of up to $10,000, offered by the FBI, will help bring closure.
“Last year, the family of Gabby Petito invited me to CrimeCon in Nashville. I joined their panel and had the opportunity to tell Zachariah’s story,” Vangie said, clarifying that she aims not only for justice for her son but also actively participates in assisting others.
On July 25, 2020, a runner discovered Shorty’s body along a dirt pathway in Nenahnezad, New Mexico, on the Navajo Nation. He had been shot to death.
Four days earlier, he was at the Journey Inn in Farmington, New Mexico. Vangie had dropped him off at the motel to create music with friends.
That night, he did not return to the motel, where he had been residing at the time. Vangie got several calls from friends, informing her of his absence.
The calls, according to Vangie, came from her son’s phone, which was unusual since he typically had his phone with him at all times.
Since his death, there have been no publicly-named suspects or arrests.
Last year, according to FOX News Digital, the FBI gave Vangie hope when they contacted her and asked her if she recognized the names of some people.
She recognized the names, but no arrests have yet been made.
“Following the update from the FBI, I received another tip, which I forwarded to them,” she mentioned to FOX News. “The same names keep being mentioned.”
Following her son’s death, Vangie became involved and continues to advocate for Missing and Murdered Diné Relatives Coalition (MMDRC).
“I became part of MMDRC, a non-profit organization, as an Advocacy Coordinator. We assist families of the Missing and Murdered. Activities we’ve supported include marches, rallies, and candlelight vigils, as well as contributing to funeral and burial costs,” she explained to CrimeOnline.
“We also provide a Missing Person’s Community Action Toolkit, designed to help families navigate finding a missing loved one, work effectively with law enforcement, and enhance communication among all parties involved.
“CrimeCon in Denver, for us as an organization, was about bringing awareness in different communities and making connections. We want our Diné Relatives to know that we are here for support.
“I also wanted to see Gabby’s family and thank them for last year. I also hope we can collaborate with their Foundation.”
Anyone with information on the case is urged to contact the FBI at 505-889-1300 or online at tips.fbi.gov.
To learn more about the case, visit the “Justice for Zachariah” Facebook page.
Check back for updates.
[Feature Photo: FBI]
