Unanswered Questions in Wake of Local Woman’s Death by Drowning

Rosebud woman Consuelo “Connie” Bernabe went to a bar in Lott on Friday, Aug 15, and never came home. Three days later, her Dodge Caravan was pulled from the Brazos River in Waco, with her corpse inside. Preliminary results indicate Bernabe’s cause of death as drowning, and though the final autopsy results are still pending, the Waco Police Department has stated “no foul play is suspected at this time.” Friends and family of Bernabe, including her seven children, still have many unanswered questions.

Several of Bernabe’s children, family members, and friends posted on Facebook on August 17, asking if anyone had seen her and imploring her to come home. The family filed missing persons claims with the Falls County Sheriff’s Office and McLennan County Sheriff’s Office.

According to a news release by Waco PD, they received a report that a Dodge Caravan was located in the Brazos River near N. University Parks Dr. and Jefferson Ave on Monday, August 18 at 10:10 AM. Waco Fire dive team, Texas Game Wardens, and Tow King assisted in pulling the car out of the river.

While the investigation is ongoing, many people (some with a vested interest in the case and others with no relation or personal involvement) have commented on Facebook posts about the developing story, adding details gleaned from family members and demanding the truth. Many offered up prayers or words of consolation. Some suggested calling in another agency to take over the investigation to ensure every consideration is taken, others speculated about suicide, drunk driving, and other factors that could have played a part in Bernabe’s death.

While the family is still grappling with this grief, they are heartened by the fundraisers, bake sales and food plate sales that have been held or are in the planning stages to assist with Bernabe’s funeral costs. A GoFundMe account has been set up as well, so that anyone who wishes to donate can do so. https://gofund. me/7a3fd530