Case closed: Death of treasure hunter remains a mystery

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — The case of a man who moved to the American West to search for $2 million in hidden treasure but turned up dead in New Mexico's backcountry was officially closed after authorities struggled to solve the mystery.

Investigators recently informed Randy Bilyeu's family, bringing some closure after more than a year of uncertainty and heartache that began when the 54-year-old father and grandfather vanished in January 2016.

Authorities have returned his cellphone and laptop to the family, who plan to go through the remainder of his belongings next week while keeping watch for any new information.

Linda Bilyeu said the family is moving forward but also is working to keep his memory alive by telling his story and warning other would-be treasure hunters to proceed with caution because the risks can be grave.

Autopsy results obtained by The Associated Press showed there was not enough evidence for investigators to determine what caused Bilyeu's death.