MISSOURI CITY, Texas – Police continue searching for answers after skeletal remains were found during the investigation into the disappearance of 61-year-old Karen Miles, who has not been heard from in nearly three weeks.
Miles, known for her philanthropy, was last heard from on Aug. 21. She attended a Zoom committee meeting from her apartment. The meeting wrapped up after 9:30pm. Miles texted her friend, Dr. Conte Terrell, thanking her for her support for an upcoming event. KPRC2 Reporter Corley Peel spoke exclusively with Terrell.
“She had been late joining the call, but after the meeting, she texted me saying, ‘Hey, I’m going to contact the gala event director tomorrow and make sure I do my part,’” Terrell shared. “I didn’t realize it would be the last time I would ever hear from her. I may have been the last person to speak with her.”
Miles posted on Facebook at 10:35 p.m. Police said that is the last time anyone heard from her.
TIMELINE: Case of missing Missouri City mother, Karen Miles
Terrell, who worked closely with Miles at her nonprofit Fresh Spirit Wellness for Women, describes her as a woman with an incredible heart.
“She was passionate, caring, and truly dedicated to helping people, especially women in need,” Terrell said.
The two had been close for years, like sisters.
“Karen’s work with women who suffered from domestic violence was incredibly meaningful to her. She was always the first to offer a hand to those in crisis.”
Miles failed to show up for work as a FEMA employee the following day, sparking concern.
Three days later, police arrested 26-year-old Davante Clark, who was found driving her car with stolen license plates. While Clark faces unrelated charges, he remains a person of interest in her disappearance.
“Karen touched so many lives. She was always there for people. Now, we just need someone to come forward and help us find her,” Terrell pleaded.
On Monday, detectives discovered the skeletal remains in a deeply wooded area while searching for Miles. The discovery was made about four miles from her apartment. The remains have not been officially identified. An autopsy is pending.
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Terrell, heartbroken, pleads for answers: “She has children, grandchildren, siblings, friends... We love her. Please, we need answers and closure.”
Authorities are investigating potential links between Clark and two other missing persons in Harris County.
“We need to know what happened to our dear friend,” Terrell added. “Her family and her friends deserve peace. We just want her to come home.”