FBI Phoenix offers $30,000 reward in connection to Amberly Mendoza case

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - Nearly 30 years after the murder of 10-year-old Amberly Mendoza, investigators are renewing their plea for the public's help in hopes of finally bringing justice to her family.

The FBI Phoenix Field Office is offering a $30,000 reward in connection to the Amberly Mendoza case.

According to FBI Phoenix, On March 9, 1996, the Yuma Police Department (YPD) responded to a home near 24th Lane and 17th Avenue, where they found Amberly unresponsive in her bedroom.

Investigators determined someone entered the home, sexually assaulted the 10-year-old, and killed her. Her cause of death was found to be asphyxiation.

While there wasn't any signs of forced entry to the home, the screen to her first-floor bedroom window was removed.

While the case has remained unsolved for nearly three decades, Yuma Police say the investigation has never been forgotten.

“Over the years, this case has never been forgotten," Sgt. Lori Franklin of the YPD public affairs unit said. "It’s constantly relooked at. Fresh set of eyes. Anything we can do to help try to solve this. Get justice for Amberly, get justice for her family. And hopefully the person can get caught and they’ll have their day in court.”

Amberly's legacy continues through Amberly's Place, a Yuma child advocacy center named in her honor. The organization provides support for children and families affected by abuse and other forms of trauma.

Leaders at Amberly's Place say the renewed effort to solve Amberly's case is about more than identifying a suspect. It's about providing long-awaited answers to her loved ones while honoring the mission inspired by her life.

“Amberly’s case reminds us every single day as to why we do the work that we do," Tori Bourguignon, Amberly's Place Executive Director said. "Every day we hold on to hope that maybe today is the day. Maybe today is the day that we have answers.”

If anyone has information regarding the case, call YPD at 928-783-4421, 78-CRIME at 928-782-7463 to submit an anonymous tip, the FBI Phoenix Office at 623-466-1999, or click here to submit an anonymous tip.