Phoenix Police are seeking new leads in the 2021 cold case murder of Alisha Bellotte, also known as Alisha Hale, whose life was tragically cut short by an unidentified assailant. In events reported by FOX 10 Phoenix, Bellotte was found deceased from a gunshot wound in a desolate area near Interstate 10 and Baseline Road in June of that year. Authorities are now revisiting the case with the hope that the passage of time may loosen tongues and memories, urging anyone with knowledge to come forward.
Investigators are sharing new footage linked to the case, showing a silver Dodge RAM truck slowly exiting the crime scene and moving westbound back onto Baseline Road. Certain details prove elusive, but the released video the day before Bellotte's body was discovered depicts a male driver and Bellotte as his passenger, discussing something before disappearing from the frame, only for the male to return alone shortly thereafter and speed away, according to ABC 15.
Phoenix Police officials are now re-emphasizing their commitment to justice for Bellotte and her family. "We are not going to stop. We are going to continue looking for this person," Sgt. Brian Bower with Phoenix Police said in a statement noted by FOX 10 Phoenix. The absence of a clear suspect years after the incident has not deterred their determination, though the lack of concrete leads remains a significant barrier.
The suspect's vehicle is thought to be a 2005 or 2006 Dodge RAM with four doors and possibly a weel hitch which may serve as a distinguishing feature. Sgt. Bower also remarked on Bellotte's attire, pointing out that, "This is not her normal dress. This is not her normal clothing that she wears." The suspect is described as approximately 5'9" tall. Given the cold nature of the case, a reward has been posted in hopes of encouraging individuals with any information to reach out to Phoenix Police or leave an anonymous tip with Silent Witness.
Detective Kevin Ham conveyed an optimistic outlook for potential tips, saying, "Sometimes, people who didn’t feel as comfortable coming out in the past feel more comfortable coming out now," as obtained by FOX 10 Phoenix. Additionally, Silent Witness offers a significant $2,000 reward for information leading to an arrest, with provisions for Spanish speakers to call Testigo Silencioso at 480-TESTIGO. The persistence of investigators signals an unwavering dedication to uncovering the truth behind a crime that has lingered too long without resolution.
