Above Images: Plaza, circa 2001
Far Right: Age-progressed to 8 & 14 years
Vital Statistics at Time of Disappearance
Missing Since: October 23, 2001 from San Antonio, Texas
Classification: Endangered Missing
Date Of Birth: February 26, 1996
Age: 5
Height: 3'1"-3'6"
Weight: 30-40 lbs.
Hair Color: Brown
Eye Color: Brown
Race: White/Hispanic
Gender: Male
Distinguishing Characteristics: He has a light brown birth
mark straight down under his belly button and has silver caps
on his
front teeth.
AKA: "Nicky"
Case Number: 01-782600; NCMC924586
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Details of Disappearance
At the time of his disappearance, Nicholas was in the care of his mother, Priscilla Plaza and Priscilla's boyfriend, Ruben Zavala Jr. Nicholas and his mother had recently moved into a home in the 100 block of Rock Valley with Zavala and his family. Interviews reveal that Nicholas's health appeared to be deteriorating over a period of time and was in need of medical attention. In a recent television interview, Zavala revealed to a reporter that Nicholas was deceased. Nicholas was last seen alive on October 23, 2001.
According to the Express-News, "Nicholas disappeared in October 2001 after reportedly suffering torture and sexual abuse. His mother reported him missing in November 2001. Details of cuts, blisters and other marks, along with the mother's claims that the boy had suffered sexual abuse, emerged in a 2005 affidavit."
In October 2006, a grand jury indicted Ruben Zavala Jr. on a charge of murder "by manner and means unknown" in connection with the disappearance of Nicholas Plaza. They have also indicted Priscilla on a charge of injury to a child by omission. Zavala reportedly told investigators he had left Nicholas' body in a Dumpster after he found him not breathing. Both Zavala and Priscilla are currently in jail awaiting trial.
Investigating Agency
If you have any information concerning this case, please contact:
San Antonio Police Department
Missing Persons Office
(210) 207-7662
OR
Crimestoppers
(800) 233-7867
Source Information
San Antonio Police Department
National Center for Missing & Exploited Children
Heidi Search Center
WOAI
The Express-News
