Austin Residents Seek Answers After Missing Couple Investigation Ends
AUSTIN, Texas — It has been over three months since Frank Guzman and his wife, Caroline Katba, went missing while traveling through Veracruz, Mexico. The couple was reported last seen on July 22, but their loved ones have faced a tiresome battle for answers, as unsettling developments have emerged in recent days. The University of Texas at Austin has reportedly wrapped up its investigation into their disappearance, leaving family members concerned and searching for alternative ways to get help.
The Journey That Became a Mystery
Frank Guzman, a dedicated PhD student in anthropology, had embarked on an exciting journey to explore fascinating cultures. He and Caroline were driving through Mexico on a research trip intended to broaden Frank’s academic horizons. Sadly, they lost contact with friends and family shortly after their last known location in the town of Coatzacoalcos in Veracruz. Frank’s sister, Elizabeth Guzman, shared that it has been an agonizing experience without updates from authorities.
“There’s a version of me that felt normal before all of this, and now I can’t be,” Elizabeth expressed, her voice heavy with emotion. “I’m a sibling who desperately misses her brother and her sister-in-law.”
No Answers From Authorities
Despite family members’ efforts to reach out to local authorities, it seems vital information regarding the couple’s case remains unavailable. Elizabeth noted that the prosecutor’s office is struggling with basic inquiries, such as accessing the couple’s cellphones and credit card history. Frank Guzman was initially reported missing to the Texas Department of Public Safety on July 18, marking the beginning of a difficult journey for loved ones trying to find him and Caroline.
The university’s decision to stop actively investigating the situation left a gaping hole in their search for closure. Elizabeth has communicated with the FBI and other agencies but feels utterly lost as to the next steps. “It’s so frustrating. Our family is just trying to piece together any information,” she lamented. Running out of options, they decided to create a GoFundMe page intended to raise money to secure an attorney who could effectively coordinate with both U.S. and Mexican agencies involved in the case.
Concerns About Safety in Veracruz
The area where Frank and Caroline went missing, Veracruz, has been under an “Exercise Increased Caution” travel advisory issued by the U.S. State Department amidst rising violent crime and gang activity. Specifically, areas like Cordoba and Coatzacoalcos, where the couple was last tracked, have seen significant safety concerns. While authorities indicate that most gang-related violence targets specific individuals, the possibility of being caught up in dangerous situations for bystanders remains a sobering reality.
The State Department has even warned about improvised roadblocks that may require individuals to pay to pass through. For families like Elizabeth’s, these warnings are more than just words — they serve as a stark reminder of the risks present in that region.
A Community Coming Together
In the face of uncertainty, the Austin community has rallied around Frank and Caroline’s loved ones. With the GoFundMe page set up, supporters are coming forward to lend their assistance and help cover legal expenses. Elizabeth believes that if she secures the right legal counsel, it may open up avenues for deeper investigations and potentially help bring her brother and sister-in-law home.
Hope Remains
Despite the challenges ahead, Frank and Caroline’s family continues to hold on to hope. “He loves traveling. He loves learning. I don’t think he was ever meant to settle down somewhere, he wants to be a part of the world,” Elizabeth reflected, speaking about her brother’s adventurous spirit. For now, they ask for the community’s support as they navigate this heart-wrenching chapter of their lives, holding vigil for Frank and Caroline’s safe return.
