BUNA, Texas — Jasper County deputies and state troopers executed another search warrant Wednesday related to the case of a woman who has been missing for more than a year.
Cristi Ruso went missing the day after she was released from the Jasper County Jail in October 2021.
She was last seen when she was given a ride and dropped off in the 1800 block of County Road 777 in Buna according to file stories.
On Wednesday morning deputies and state troopers began searching a property along County road 777 near where they and the FBI had searched nearly a week ago according to a news release from the Jasper County Sheriff's Office.
The latest search is based on "new developments" from the search warrant that was served nearby on February 23, 2023, the release said.
"I can tell you that the two properties are related. We're not going to disclose at this time the extent of that relationship, but the two properties are related," said Karli Cherry with the Jasper County's Sheriff Office.
Wednesday's search is likely to last for several days according to the sheriff's office.
“We will not stop until this case is solved," Chief Deputy Scott Duncan was quoted as saying in the release.
"We're going to stay there as long as it takes," Cherry said.
Ruso's Aunt, Debbie Wilson, along with the rest of her family, have organized search parties for her in Hardin and Jasper Counties.
"We have prayed all this time and have faith in God that it's gonna come out and I have a feeling that it's about to," Wilson said.
After many efforts, it seemed like the case had fallen flat , until recently.
"Publicly, the case may have seemed stagnant, but behind the scenes, as you all know, law enforcement is always working. We worked on this case every single day since we received the missing persons report," said Cherry.
When asked if investigators are looking for a body at this point, Cherry says hopefully, if they find one.
Investigators and family are preparing for any outcome.
"I could say we want her home, but we know we won't have her anymore, but at least we'll have closure," Wilson said.
This is a developing story. We will update with more if and when we receive more confirmed information.
GET NEWS & WEATHER ALERTS | Download the 12News App to your mobile device
CRIME STOPPERS | Submit a tip @ 833Tips.com
CRIME STOPPERS APP | Download the P3 Tips App
If you have information about a crime you could earn a cash reward of up to $1000 by providing an ANONYMOUS tip to Crime Stoppers of Southeast Texas.
Call 833-TIPS (8477) or download the P3Tips App on your mobile device to submit your tip anonymously.