San Diego County Sheriff's investigators have a new lead in the case of the Fallbrook family last seen by relatives more than a month ago.
Joseph McStay, 40; his wife Summer, 43; and their two young children, Gianni and Joey Jr. left their dogs unattended and rotting food in their home. There were no signs of a struggle at their house.
Now, deputies say they've spotted images of a group of people similar to the McStay family going hand in hand into Mexico through the pedestrian gate. The video is dated around 7 p.m. Feb. 8, the same day the family's white Isuzu Trooper was and towed from San Ysidro.
Investigators aren't sure if the people in the video are the McStay family but consider it a positive lead. They are working to enhance the image so it can be released to the public.
Acquaintances told investigators the McStays never would have left on vacation or for any other reason without telling someone.
Authorities say they are baffled about the disappearance.
"Quite frankly, I've never seen a case like this before," said San Diego County Sheriff's Lt. Dennis Brugos.
The San Diego County Sheriff's Department said it had contacted a liaison in Baja California and asked for a search of airports, bus stations and other major travel hubs.
Brugos also said that when a family is missing, the people are usually found either safe or victimized within a day or so. He added that since the case is so unusual, he is not sure how long the investigation will remain open.
Relatives of the McStay family has set up a Web site with information and pictures. Anyone with information about the case is being urged to call deputies at 858-974-2321 or 858-565-5200 after-hours. Tips can also be called in anonymously to CrimeStoppers at 888-580-TIPS(8477). A reward of up to $1,000 is being offered by CrimeStoppers for information leading to an arrest.
