Orange County, CA: The relatives of 22-year-old Nihar “Mars” Mehta are appealing once again for assistance after receiving reports they consider credible of his presence in the cities of Garden Grove and Westminster.
Mehta, who has been missing since June 2023, was last seen on June 2 near 1440 North Glassell Street in Orange County. His vehicle was subsequently found abandoned on June 23. Described as six feet three inches tall and weighing approximately 225 pounds, he was last observed wearing a black NASA hoodie, black jeans, and black Converse sneakers.
Investigators are also looking into a person who claimed to have been with Nihar at a Covina Walmart on June 3 and left him there. This individual has since disappeared, and authorities are examining their disappearance in connection with Mehta’s case.
Recent accounts indicate sightings of someone matching Nihar’s description near the intersection of Brookhurst Street and Westminster Avenue. Members of the local homeless population have reportedly referred to him as “Mars.” While these reports have renewed hope for his family, they continue to worry about his mental well-being and safety after more than two years without confirmed contact.
The Mehta family has announced a $10,000 reward for reliable information that could lead to Nihar’s safe return. They are urging anyone who may have seen him, or has knowledge of his location, to come forward. Law enforcement agencies remain actively involved in the investigation.
The Orange County Police Department has also released details regarding a person of interest, 43-year-old Manuel Chavez Zamudio, seeking public assistance in locating him. To incentivize tips, the Mehta family is offering the reward for credible information that either leads to Nihar being found safely or results in an arrest and conviction related to the case. Anyone with information should contact the Orange Police Department at 714-744-7571. More information is available at missinginorangecounty.com.
At this time, the reported sightings have not been officially verified, but the family remains hopeful that the renewed public attention will generate actionable leads and bring closure to their long search.
