Missing mother of 7 found dead in submerged minivan in river, Texas cops say

A missing mother known for her smile and kind soul was found dead in a Texas river, according to police and loved ones.

Consuelo Bernabe had last been seen alive on Friday, Aug. 15, in Waco, according to one of her daughters, Maria Romero.

Family members were left searching for clues in the days that followed, but there were no leads throughout the weekend.

“If you know Connie you know she’s the most laid back, sweetest person ever,” said Niqua Hayes on Facebook. “Let me know you okay girl!!! Your kids need you.”

But on Monday, Aug. 18, the Waco Police Department said a Dodge Caravan was discovered in the Brazos River.

After pulling out the minivan, investigators found the body of a 39-year-old woman inside the vehicle, police said. Loved ones identified the victim as Bernabe.

Waco police said it has initiated a “questionable death investigation.” Officers did not have additional information about how she ended up in the river or when it happened.

Bernabe was a mother of seven, according to a GoFundMe, which described her as “a beautiful soul, always smiling and bringing joy to those around her.”

“Everyone loved her, even her enemies,” another one of her daughters, Hermelinda Romero, told KWTX.

This story was originally published August 19, 2025 at 2:55 PM with the headline "Missing mother of 7 found dead in submerged minivan in river, Texas cops say."