On May 16, 2024, at about 9:07 a.m., the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office responded to a welfare check request in the 500 block of Cottonwood Dr. in unincorporated El Paso County. Upon arrival, deputies located two deceased adults, one male and one female.

The El Paso County Coroner has identified the female victim as 25-year-old Esmeralda Contreras- Mata and the male as 31-year-old Thabiso Makhafola. The official cause and manner of death will be determined by the Coroner’s Office.

This incident is being investigated as a potential murder-suicide. There is no known threat to the community.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, please report it to law enforcement immediately. Domestic abuse is a serious crime, and your report can help protect victims and prevent further harm. No one should suffer in silence.

###