by In a heart-wrenching turn of events, the Shorty family discovered Philbert Shorty’s abandoned car stuck in the mud near the small community of Tsaile, Arizona in the winter of 2021. His uncle, Ben Shorty, immediately sensed that something was amiss. Little did they know that Philbert had already met a tragic fate.
For two long years, the family searched tirelessly for Philbert. They combed through remote canyons on the Navajo Nation, utilized radio ads, and turned to social media for help. Despite their efforts, they remained in the dark about his demise.
It wasn’t until U.S. prosecutors struck a plea deal with Shiloh Aaron Oldrock that the truth began to unravel. Oldrock confessed to his involvement in Philbert’s death, revealing a gruesome cover-up that involved dismembering and burning Philbert’s body.
The details of Philbert’s story shed light on a larger issue plaguing Indigenous communities across the United States and Canada. High rates of missing persons and unsolved killings have finally caught the attention of policymakers, leading to legislative action and increased awareness.
Despite these efforts, families like the Shortys continue to face challenges in seeking justice and closure. Transparency from law enforcement is lacking, leaving families in the dark about the status of their loved ones’ cases.
As the search for answers continues, advocates like Darlene Gomez and Bernadine Beyale work tirelessly to support families and bridge the gap between law enforcement and the community. Their efforts offer a glimmer of hope in the face of tragedy.
Philbert’s family, like many others, remains hopeful for closure and resolution. They long for the day when they can finally lay him to rest and find peace amidst the turmoil of uncertainty.
