UPDATE – Homicide not likely
Cottonwood AZ (June 16, 2015) – Based on information developed over the last several days, YCSO detectives are changing the focus of their investigation with a homicide emphasis being a less likely factor. Detectives located a resident living near the irrigation canal that noticed Holgate swimming in the canal alone during the early afternoon hours of June 11, 2015 – the same day her body was found. Additionally, the Medical Examiner has issued preliminary findings indicating a cause of death involving apparent drowning and a drug overdose. There is no evidence otherwise of foul play, but the investigation remains open.
The Sheriff’s Office would like to thank all those who called to provide information regarding this incident. Every lead was reviewed and investigated as necessary. It was important in this case that Sheriff’s Office seek public input promptly due to a lack of initial indications as to how Holgate died. Waiting too long to seek assistance from the public could mean missing critical leads that would help provide clues to detectives. Again, the calls and concerns from the public were appreciated.
Detectives are still in the process of establishing a timeline for Holgate’s whereabouts and any contacts she had between June 9th and the afternoon of June 11th, 2015. Any information is appreciated – Please contact Detective Keith Levin at 928-777-7271- THIS IS A NEW PHONE NUMBER. Refer to case number 15-021746.
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Cottonwood AZ (June 14, 2015) – Thursday, June 11, 2015 around 6PM, YCSO deputies were dispatched to the 2600 block of Mongini Lane in Bridgeport, Cottonwood, regarding the body of a woman found in a nearby irrigation canal. She was identified as 23-year-old Jennifer Holgate from Prescott Valley. Deputies and detectives have since canvassed the area for evidence and potential witnesses, but the exact circumstances of her death remain undetermined.
Detectives learned that Holgate had been released from the Camp Verde Detention Center around 5 PM on June 9, 2015. She had been in jail for two days after being arrested on a misdemeanor warrant. She is believed to have been back and forth between the Cottonwood area and Prescott Valley area over the last few of days of her life.
Detectives are not disclosing any further details at this time to prevent jeopardizing the ongoing investigation. Detectives are seeking any information from the public on Holgate’s death. This includes anyone who had contact with her in recent days or may have background information that would help explain the timeline of her whereabouts following her release from jail on June 9.
The handling detective is Keith Levin who can be reached at 928-777-7389. Callers may also contact Yavapai Silent Witness at 1-800-932-3232 to report information anonymously. Any tip, no matter how seemingly insignificant, is encouraged.
The case number is 15-021746.
Citizens can contact the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office with information or questions at 928-771-3260 or the YCSO website: www.ycsoaz.gov
