Remains Found in Ecuador River Identified as Woman Missing for 37 Days

The Ecuadorian prosecutor's office confirmed the discovery of the remains of Lizeth Bunshi, a 28-year-old woman who had been reported missing 37 days prior. Her body was found in the Machángara River in Quito. Due to the advanced state of decomposition, immediate identification was not possible. However, forensic dentistry later confirmed the remains belonged to Bunshi, who was last seen on July 19. Cristian Villavicencio, described as a friend of Bunshi and the last person seen with her, has been detained and is being processed for involuntary disappearance. The family's lawyer, Freddy Ron, stated they intend to push for femicide charges against Villavicencio. Police arrested Villavicencio on July 22 after security camera footage and witness accounts placed him with Bunshi before her disappearance. He is currently under preventive detention. "The victims have the right to know what truly happened and to have prompt, timely justice without delay. In this case, it is a femicide offense based on witnesses who observed what Cristian V. did against Lizeth Bunshi, how he dragged her and spoke to her with pejorative adjectives," Ron told local media. A reconstruction of events is scheduled for Sunday, which the family's defense believes will support the reformulation of charges against the suspect. Human rights organizations report that a woman or girl is a victim of femicide every 22 hours in Ecuador, with 411 femicides recorded in 2025, the highest number since records began.

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The victims have the right to know what truly happened and to have prompt, timely justice without delay. In this case, it is a femicide offense based on witnesses who observed what Cristian V. did against Lizeth Bunshi, how he dragged her and spoke to her with peyorative adjectives.