By Roger Lanse

Steven Morales, 36, of Silver City, charged with the death of Estevan Ortega on Wednesday, Jan. 14, was the subject of a search by law enforcement on Thursday, Jan. 22, north of Ridge Road and again on Friday, Jan. 23, when officers surrounded the Shady Grove area. However, in both instances, according to Grant County Sheriff Raul Villanueva, Morales was not found.

Both searches were prompted by tips, Villanueva said. Thursday's search included members of the Grant County Sheriff's Department, Silver City Police Department and the U.S. Marshal's Office, while on Friday, marshals were replaced by officers of the New Mexico State Police.

"I have my guys out right now, and will have them out this weekend, looking for Morales," Villanueva told the Beat.

Villanueva said Crimestoppers is offering a reward for information leading to Morales' arrest. Information can be left anonymously at Crimestoppers by calling 575-538-5254.