The Waco Police Department has disclosed the cause of death for Consuelo Bernabe, a mother of seven from Texas who had gone missing. Bernabe, aged 39, was tragically discovered deceased inside her submerged Dodge Caravan on Monday, August 18, after the minivan was retrieved from the Brazos River in Waco, Texas. The preliminary autopsy results released on Thursday, August 21, indicate that she passed away due to drowning, and no evidence of foul play has been identified at this stage. However, final autopsy outcomes are still pending, and investigations are continuing.
Prior to the recovery of her body on August 18, Bernabe was reported missing on Friday, August 15. Her daughter, Maria Romero, took to social media on Sunday, August 17, to share this disheartening information. According to one of Bernabe’s daughters, Hermelinda Romero, her mother was last seen at a bar in Lott, Texas. Bernabe had notified her family while at the bar that she was awaiting a male acquaintance to pick her up. Hermelinda expressed that they suspected Bernabe was under the influence of alcohol when she made the call.
On the morning of Monday, August 18, Waco Police Officers were alerted to a Dodge Caravan submerged in the Brazos River at 10:10 a.m. The vehicle was recovered with the assistance of the Fire dive team, Texas Game Wardens, and Tow King. Bernabe’s body was subsequently removed from the minivan, and her next of kin were duly informed. The victim was officially identified as Bernabe by the Waco Police Department on Tuesday, August 19.
Bernabe’s son, David Romero, recalled how unusual it was for his mother to disappear without informing anyone. He described her as someone who always had her phone with her, promptly responding to all calls and messages. David reminisced about his mother’s constant smile and highlighted that her children were her utmost priority; she consistently ensured their well-being. Meanwhile, Maria paid tribute to her mother on Facebook, expressing her love and seeking justice for Bernabe’s untimely demise.
In the aftermath of this tragedy, Hermelinda initiated a GoFundMe page to assist the family in covering unforeseen funeral expenses. The community has rallied to support the grieving family during this challenging period. Despite the preliminary autopsy results attributing Bernabe’s death to drowning, her final autopsy report is awaited to provide additional insights. As the investigation progresses, loved ones remember Bernabe for her caring nature and unwavering dedication to her children.
The circumstances surrounding Consuelo Bernabe’s disappearance and tragic demise serve as a poignant reminder of the unpredictable nature of life. The revelation of her cause of death sheds light on the sequence of events leading to this heartbreaking outcome. Bernabe’s family, friends, and the wider community have come together to honour her memory and seek closure amidst profound sorrow. The quest for justice and understanding continues as authorities delve deeper into the details of this devastating incident.