After decades without answers, Bullhead City Police have identified the young woman known for years as “Castleberry Kate.”

Authorities announced that advanced DNA genealogy testing has positively identified the victim as Sonya Alice Langan, marking a major breakthrough in a cold case that dates back to 1989.

Sonya’s skeletal remains were discovered buried in a vacant lot on Castleberry Lane in Bullhead City on May 15, 1989. Investigators determined she was the victim of a homicide after a bullet was recovered from her skull. Despite extensive investigative efforts, her identity remained unknown for nearly four decades.

Through forensic genealogy testing conducted by the DNA Doe Project and assistance from multiple agencies, investigators were able to identify Sonya and contact surviving family members. Detectives learned she left home around 1982 at approximately 17–18 years old and was never officially reported missing.

The case remains open and under investigation.

Detectives are asking anyone who knew Sonya Langan, lived in the Bullhead City area during the early 1980s, or has information regarding her disappearance or death to contact the Bullhead City Police Department at (928) 763-9200.

After nearly 40 years, investigators hope this identification will help bring answers, justice, and closure for Sonya’s family.

Bullhead Laughlin News will continue to follow this story and provide updates as more information becomes available.

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