In a tragic case that captivated the public, the murder of 16-year-old Susana Morales became a significant focus of the special episode “Tracking Susana,” aired on the television programme ’20/20′ on May 8, 2026. Morales’ disappearance on the night of July 26, 2022, while walking home from a friend’s residence, unspooled into a harrowing investigation that ultimately led to the conviction of a local police officer.
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Susana Morales, a resident of Norcross, Georgia, went missing after texting her mother around 9:40 p.m. that she was making her way home. Despite confirming through mobile data that she was in the vicinity of her home between 10:07 p.m. and 10:21 p.m., Morales never arrived. Her family reported her missing the following day but expressed frustration that the Gwinnett County Police Department treated her disappearance as possibly a runaway case, not taking it as seriously as they should have.
The journey home for Morales was intended to take approximately 15 minutes. However, by the time law enforcement became involved, crucial hours had passed. Gwinnett County Police Chief J.D. McClure disclosed that an interaction with an unknown individual likely occurred between 10:00 p.m. and 10:30 p.m., after which Morales was not seen or heard from again. The investigation revealed that her phone continued to send signals near Oak Loch Trace until it was either turned off or died.
Months later, on February 6, 2023, the discovery of Morales’ remains brought a dreadful conclusion to the search. Her body was located in a wooded area close to Highway 316. Investigators identified Morales through distinctive black fingernail polish found on her fingers. The lack of clothing at the site led authorities to suspect she had been stripped before her remains were disposed. A significant clue emerged when a black Glock 19 pistol was uncovered at the crime scene, linking the murder to the suspect.
Miles Bryant, a 22-year-old police officer, was arrested in connection with Morales’ death. At the time, he was serving as a courtesy officer at the Sterling Glen Apartments, where Morales had been prior to her disappearance. The morning after her disappearance, Bryant reported a firearm missing—a gun that would later be identified at the murder scene. Investigators traced his phone activity and discovered that he had been present at the location where Morales was found that night.
Despite the overwhelming evidence against him, including questionable searches on his internet history about body decomposition, Bryant maintained his innocence. He faced multiple charges, including malice murder and kidnapping. Prosecutors presented troubling evidence during the trial, revealing a pattern of harassment from Bryant towards young women, including a disturbing incident where he threatened a runaway with kidnapping and murder. A friend of Morales testified that they had encountered Bryant at the apartment complex, where he had attempted to offer them drugs and a ride, which they had declined.
In June 2024, a jury convicted Bryant of several charges, including malice murder and felony murder. He was sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole, in addition to an extra year. Although he requested a new trial, the appeal was denied, and he is currently seeking further review from the Supreme Court of Georgia.
The story of Susana Morales and the events surrounding her murder underscore the ongoing issues of violence against women and the importance of serious police protocols in cases of missing persons. Morales’ family, particularly her sister Jasmine Perez, expressed a desire for her to be remembered for her joyful spirit rather than as a victim. “She was just a sister, a daughter, a friend,” Jasmine stated, highlighting the senseless nature of her loss and the deep mourning experienced by those who loved her.
As the legal proceedings against Miles Bryant continue to unfold, the case of Susana Morales serves as a powerful reminder of both the fragility of life and the imperative of diligent law enforcement in protecting vulnerable individuals within communities. The lasting impact of her tragic story is felt by many, both locally in Georgia and beyond, as discussions around justice and accountability remain paramount in society.