Fayetteville, North Carolina – On April 16, 2012, Kelli Bordeaux, a 23-year-old Army medic, failed to report for formation at Fort Bragg, sparking immediate concern among her fellow soldiers. Known for her dedication and ambition, Kelli’s disappearance prompted an intensive search led by local authorities and military officials.
Concern grew as investigators found Kelli’s car at her residence, but there was no sign of her. As the search intensified, her husband, Michael Bordeaux, expressed deep concern over her sudden disappearance, recalling their last conversation just days before. Authorities, including the Cumberland County District Attorney, emphasized the urgency of finding Kelli as they combed through clues and leads.
As the investigation unfolded, details emerged about Kelli’s personal life, including her relationship with her husband and a new development involving a boyfriend. Amidst the search efforts, Kelli’s sister revealed that she had been out with a man named Justin Thompson on the night of her disappearance, shedding light on a potential person of interest and raising new questions.
Authorities turned their focus to Nicholas “Nick” Holbert, a local man who had been in contact with Kelli prior to her disappearance. Holbert, a registered sex offender, came under scrutiny as investigators delved into his background and his interactions with Kelli. Meanwhile, a private investigator, moved by the family’s plea for answers, launched an independent effort to uncover the truth behind Kelli’s vanishing.
Months turned into years, with the case hitting a standstill until a breakthrough in 2014 when a confession led investigators to Kelli’s remains buried deep in the woods. The grim discovery shed light on the violent circumstances of her death, pointing to a chilling crime committed by Holbert. Subsequently, Holbert faced charges of first-degree murder and kidnapping, eventually accepting a plea deal to avoid the death penalty.
The case of Kelli Bordeaux’s disappearance and tragic demise serves as a reminder of the complexities and dark realities that can lurk beneath seemingly ordinary circumstances. As the community mourns her loss, the search for justice continues, offering a glimpse into the intricate web of events that led to a young soldier’s untimely end.