Lizeth Bunshi's remains found in Quito river; family seeks femicide charges

The search for Lizeth Bunshi ended tragically with the confirmation of her remains in Quito's Machángara River. The 28-year-old stylist and mother of one disappeared on July 19, 2026, after leaving her home in the Los Chillos valley. Her disappearance sparked an extensive 37-day search, with family and friends actively sharing appeals on social media.

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several indications pointed to the remains belonging to the young woman.

Bunshi was last seen entering a ravine near the Machángara River with Cristian Gonzalo V. L., a man identified as her partner. Security footage captured their entry into the area through a broken fence. A witness reported hearing an argument between Bunshi and V. L., including threats, followed by cries for help. Multiple individuals present at the ravine reportedly stated that V. L. pushed Bunshi into the river.

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there was a 60% confirmation that it was Lizeth.

While V. L. was initially detained and charged with involuntary disappearance, Bunshi's family, supported by their lawyer Freddy Ron, is now pushing for the case to be reclassified as femicide. The identification of the remains was confirmed through forensic odontology after their discovery on August 25. The family plans to hold a wake in Conocoto and a reconstruction of the events is scheduled for August 30. The investigation continues as the family seeks justice for what they believe was a murder.

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the man allegedly pushed the young woman into the river.