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Firefighters Assist in Search of Jeffrey Epstein's Former Ranch
New Mexico investigators intensify probe into alleged abuse and trafficking at Zorro Ranch
Published on Mar. 11, 2026
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New Mexico authorities have launched an intensive search of Jeffrey Epstein's former Zorro Ranch, with firefighters assisting law enforcement teams combing the sprawling desert property. The operation marks a significant escalation in the state's renewed criminal investigation into alleged sex trafficking and abuse at the site. Officials say the search is being conducted with the full cooperation of the current property owners, who purchased the estate from the Epstein estate in 2023.
Why it matters
The search of Zorro Ranch represents a major step in attempts to uncover evidence of potential crimes that may have taken place at the property, which survivors have long claimed was used as a site of abuse. The investigation has gained momentum following the recent release of millions of previously sealed documents related to Epstein's case, reviving scrutiny of locations associated with the financier and his associates.
The details
Firefighters are assisting search teams combing the sprawling desert property, along with specialist state law enforcement units and forensic officials. The tactical push follows the recent release of millions of previously sealed documents by the U.S. Department of Justice, which survivors claim highlight the ranch as a primary hub for illegal activities that federal authorities largely ignored for years. The ranch, purchased by Epstein in 1993, spans a large tract of land near Santa Fe and includes a mansion, multiple buildings, and even a private airstrip.
- The search operation commenced on Monday morning (March 10, 2026).
- New Mexico had begun looking into potential crimes linked to the ranch in 2019, but paused the effort at the request of federal prosecutors who were pursuing their own case against Epstein.
The players
Raúl Torrez
The New Mexico Attorney General who officially reopened the state's criminal investigation into the Zorro Ranch last month.
Don Huffines
A Texas businessman whose family purchased the Zorro Ranch property from the Epstein estate in 2023 and has renamed it the San Rafael Ranch.
What’s next
The New Mexico Department of Justice has pledged to keep the public informed as the investigation continues, while prioritizing the safety and needs of those coming forward with testimony.
The takeaway
The search of Zorro Ranch represents a significant escalation in the state's efforts to uncover potential evidence of abuse and trafficking that may have occurred at the property, which has long been associated with Jeffrey Epstein's alleged criminal activities. The cooperation of the current owners and the involvement of firefighters to assist in the large-scale search operation underscore the complexity and importance of this investigation.
