by HOOKER, Oklahoma — 19-Year-Old Charged After Missing Teen’s Body Found in Rural Beaver County
A 19-year-old Oklahoma man has been charged in connection with the death of 16-year-old London Valdez, a Hooker teen who went missing in early June and was later found dead in a rural section of Beaver County. The chilling discovery has shaken the small Panhandle community, leaving many heartbroken over the loss of a young life filled with potential.
Teen’s Disappearance and Discovery
According to the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI), Brayden Brown, 19, was formally charged with second-degree murder on October 30. At the time, Brown was already being held in the Beaver County Jail on unrelated charges.
Authorities said Valdez was reported missing by her grandmother on June 7, after she failed to return home. Family members and local residents joined in search efforts while police began tracking her last known movements. Just five days later, on June 12, her body was found in a rural area of Beaver County, several miles from where she was last seen.
The OSBI quickly took over the case, labeling it a suspicious death investigation. After an autopsy and further evidence collection, the victim was identified as London Valdez, a teenager described by loved ones as bright, caring, and deeply compassionate.
Cause of Death and Brown’s Involvement
According to OSBI’s findings, the medical examiner determined that Valdez’s cause of death was acute methamphetamine toxicity, which was compounded by hyperthermia, or excessive body heat. Investigators say Valdez had been traveling with Brayden Brown in the days before her death, and both were allegedly under the influence of methamphetamine.
OSBI agents reported that Brown admitted to driving a vehicle with Valdez as a passenger while intoxicated. At some point, the vehicle became stuck on a dirt road just north of the intersection where her body was later discovered. Brown allegedly left the vehicle and fled the scene, abandoning Valdez behind. That moment is believed to have been the last time anyone saw her alive.
In a public statement, investigators explained, “Brown was driving the vehicle and got stuck on a dirt road just north of the intersection where the victim was found deceased.”
Officials added that the timeline of events suggests Valdez may have suffered the fatal effects of drug intoxication and heat exposure soon after Brown’s departure.
Remembering London Valdez
Family and friends continue to mourn London’s death, describing her as a kind-hearted young woman who was always willing to help others. According to her obituary, Valdez had a passion for rescuing animals and often looked out for those who couldn’t protect themselves.
“She had a big heart for rescuing animals,” her family wrote. “She also enjoyed playing softball, listening to music, and hanging out with her friends. Her biggest joy was the time she spent hiking at Red River, New Mexico, or in the mountains, and driving around Ponca Lake with her mother, Brittany.”
Loved ones said she was known for her empathy and her willingness to stand up for others. “She was particularly kind to the underdog and was always putting others before herself,” the obituary continued. “London will be forever 16 in the hearts of those who loved her.”
Her death has sparked conversations within the local community about youth safety, substance abuse prevention, and the vulnerability of small-town teens who may fall into dangerous situations.
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Investigation Continues
Authorities are still piecing together what happened in the days leading up to Valdez’s death. The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation confirmed that they are reviewing digital evidence, witness statements, and forensic reports to establish a complete timeline.
Brayden Brown remains in custody at the Beaver County Jail. It is unclear whether he has entered a plea or obtained legal representation. Prosecutors have not ruled out the possibility of additional charges as the investigation develops.
Officials have urged anyone with additional information to come forward, emphasizing that even small details could help bring full justice to London’s family.
As the community continues to grieve, tributes and vigils have been held in Valdez’s memory, highlighting her love of animals and her generous spirit. Neighbors say her legacy will live on through the lives she touched — a reminder of the importance of compassion, awareness, and protection for young people across Oklahoma.
For continued updates on this developing case and related community news, visit race-day-live.com.
