Human Remains Identified as Molly Miller and Colt Haynes, Missing Since 2013
Love County, Oklahoma – Human remains discovered in Love County, Oklahoma, have been identified as Molly Miller, 17, and Colt Haynes, 21, who were reported missing on July 7, 2013. The identification brings a partial resolution to a case that has spanned more than a decade.
The discovery was made on February 18, 2026, during a specialized search operation. The investigation into the circumstances of their deaths remains active, with a local district attorney planning to present the case to a grand jury.
The discovery on February 18, 2026, resulted from a search encompassing over 1,000 acres, focusing on an area not previously examined.
Discovery and Identification Details
Two sets of human remains were located on February 18, 2026, in Love County, Oklahoma. The search operation was a joint effort conducted by the Chickasaw Lighthorse Police Department and the Bureau of Indian Affairs' Missing and Murdered Unit.
The renewed investigation was prompted by new information and the securing of access to previously unexamined land. The terrain in the search area was described as rough.
The remains were identified as Molly Miller, who was 17 at the time of her disappearance, and Colt Haynes, who was 21. Molly Miller, a member of the Chickasaw Nation, was identified by the medical examiner on March 31. The identification date for Colt Haynes was not specified. Both families have been notified of the identifications.
Background of Their Disappearance
Molly Miller and Colt Haynes were last seen on July 7, 2013. They were passengers in a vehicle driven by James Con Nipp, which became involved in a police chase in Carter County, Oklahoma. Authorities lost track of the vehicle in Love County.
Reports indicated that the vehicle subsequently crashed, and Con Nipp departed the scene, leaving Miller and Haynes behind.
The day after their disappearance, Haynes and Miller reportedly contacted friends, requesting assistance and water and stating they were lost near a local road. Two weeks later, the vehicle was discovered abandoned in the woods, but there was no sign of Miller or Haynes at that time.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have not released information regarding the cause of death for Miller and Haynes. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding their deaths is active and ongoing.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs Missing and Murdered Unit has stated its commitment to pursuing all leads in the case. The local district attorney intends to present the case to a multi-county grand jury for formal charges once the investigation concludes.
Family Response
Misty Miller Howell, Molly Miller's older cousin, stated that the discovery has provided a degree of closure for the family.
"Questions remain regarding the circumstances of their deaths," Miller Howell stated, expressing a belief that foul play was involved.
Miller Howell also stated that the family is prepared for the multi-county grand jury proceedings.