LAPD Seeks Information About Woman Found Dead In Hollywood Hills Sewer

HOLLYWOOD, CA — The Los Angeles Police Department is asking for the public's help in identifying the person or people responsible for the death of a woman whose body was found inside a sewer drain in the Hollywood Hills last year.

The skeletal remains of Mercy Melissa Martinez, 28, were found by city workers in the drain on June 13, 2022. LAPD detectives have evidence that suggests her body was placed in the sewer by someone else, according to the department.

Martinez's family last saw her in April 2021. She was last known to be alive on June 15, 2021, as a result of contact with police. Martinez was experiencing homelessness when she disappeared and had struggled with substance abuse.

The LAPD is seeking information about the person or people responsible for Martinez's death and is also interested in learning about her whereabouts between June 2021 and June 2022. The city is offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to the identity, arrest and prosecution of those who may be responsible.

Those with information are asked to call detectives John Lamberti or Tamara Momayez at 213-382-9470. During non-business hours people can call 877-LAPD. Anonymous tips can also be submitted on the LAPD's website.