New Mexico Probes Alleged Strangling Deaths at Epstein Ranch

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The New Mexico Department of Justice has launched an investigation into allegations that the bodies of two foreign young women are buried on Jeffrey Epstein's Zorro Ranch property. The claims stem from documents released by the U.S. Department of Justice, which state the women died by strangulation during "rough, fetish sex" on the ranch. Authorities have requested unredacted information to aid their probe into the extent of Epstein's alleged abuse on the property.

Why it matters

The new allegations against Epstein's New Mexico ranch add to the growing body of evidence of the late financier's extensive history of sexual abuse and trafficking of minors. If true, the discovery of the bodies would be a disturbing new development that could implicate additional individuals in Epstein's crimes.

The details

According to the report, the New Mexico Department of Justice received an email from a former Zorro Ranch employee alleging the bodies of two foreign young women are buried "somewhere in the hills outside the Zorro." The email claimed the women died by strangulation during "rough, fetish sex" on the property. Authorities have requested a copy of the unredacted document making this claim in order to aid their investigation into the extent of Epstein's alleged abuse on the ranch.

• On Wednesday, February 20, 2026, Reuters reported on the New Mexico DOJ investigation.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The New Mexico Department of Justice has requested a copy of the unredacted document making the claim about the buried bodies in order to aid their investigation. Authorities will be working to uncover the full extent of Epstein's alleged abuse on the Zorro Ranch property.