PHOENIX - Phoenix police began searching a landfill Monday in the desert southwest of Phoenix for the remains of a missing 34-year old Valley woman, believed to be a homicide victim.
Police say the search could take up to nine weeks.
Investigators believe they may find the remains of Christine Mustafa, who went missing earlier this year.
As many as 30 officers will dig and sift through tons of trash during daylight hours Monday through Friday.
“We’re trying to stick together,” said Christine’s sister Suzanne, who spoke with 12 News back in May.
“Please, please, please if you’ve seen anything, if you’re heard anything, if you see her anywhere, please just contact me, please,” she said.
The last time anyone saw Christine was May 10, 2017, near Deer Valley and Cave Creek Roads in north Phoenix.
Christine didn’t show up for work. Coworkers told police she had an argument with her boyfriend over the phone and he threatened to kill her.
Police served a search warrant on the home the couple shared. Inside, they found the woman’s wallet, keys and cell phone.
More than a month after Christine went missing, Interval was arrested and charged with first degree murder. He pleaded not guilty.
"We just need to pray for her to come home," said Craig Hutton, Christine’s brother-in-law.
Christine’s family accepts the fact she may not be alive, but they want her found.
"It's a relief to know that we're finally looking at some answers,” said Hutton.
Interval’s trial is set for February 22. Phoenix police say this is still an ongoing investigation and encourage anyone with information about Christine’s disappearance to contact them immediately.