Oxford, MS—A major breakthrough has been made in the nearly three-year-long search for University of Mississippi student Jimmie “Jay” Lee, whose disappearance in 2022 captured national attention. On Saturday, February 1, 2025, Carroll County deputies contacted the Oxford Police Department after deer hunters discovered human remains in a remote wooded area.

After a joint investigation involving the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, the Oxford Police Department, and the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation (MBI), forensic experts transported the remains to the Mississippi State Crime Lab for DNA testing.

On Wednesday, February 5, the lab officially confirmed the remains belonged to Jimmie “Jay” Lee, marking the first definitive evidence of his fate since he vanished on July 8, 2022.

The Discovery and Investigation

The chilling discovery was made in a secluded, heavily wooded area of Carroll County. Officials reported that the remains were found partially buried, raising suspicions that efforts had been made to conceal them. Authorities have not disclosed whether additional forensic evidence, such as clothing or personal items, was recovered at the scene.

Following the discovery, law enforcement officers launched an extensive search of the surrounding area, collecting potential evidence that could be linked to Lee’s disappearance and suspected murder. Investigators are now working to determine how long the remains had been in Carroll County and whether they were moved there after Lee’s initial disappearance.

Oxford Police Department’s Response

Oxford Police Chief Jeff McCutchen issued a statement expressing his department’s unwavering commitment to the case:

“The Oxford Police Department made a commitment to finding Jay, no matter how long it took. This case has remained an active investigation since July 8, 2022. We are grateful to the Lee family and Jay’s friends for their help and support throughout this process. We hope this confirmation brings them even a small measure of comfort.”

A Case That Captivated the Public

Lee’s disappearance in 2022 sparked widespread concern and media coverage, with law enforcement receiving numerous tips and leads over the years. Friends and family described him as a vibrant young man with a bright future ahead of him. He was last seen leaving his apartment complex in Oxford, Mississippi, reportedly en route to meet someone.

From the outset, police suspected foul play. Their investigation soon led them to Sheldon Timothy Herrington, who was subsequently arrested and charged in connection with Lee’s disappearance and presumed death. Prosecutors accused Herrington of killing Lee to cover up an alleged romantic relationship between the two. However, the case against Herrington was complicated by a lack of physical evidence tying him directly to Lee’s disappearance.

Sheldon Herrington’s Trial and the Mistrial That Followed

In December 2024, Herrington went to trial for Lee’s murder. The prosecution presented circumstantial evidence and digital records suggesting Herrington was the last person to see Lee alive. However, the defense challenged the reliability of the evidence, arguing that there was no conclusive proof linking Herrington to a crime.

After weeks of testimony and deliberations, the trial ended in a mistrial when jurors were unable to reach a unanimous verdict. While prosecutors vowed to retry the case, the discovery of Lee’s remains may significantly impact how they proceed.

Legal experts speculate that forensic evidence from the newly discovered remains could strengthen the prosecution’s case. If new DNA or trace evidence connects Herrington to the body’s location, it could lead to additional charges or a retrial with stronger evidence.

Ongoing Investigation and Next Steps

Authorities have stated that they are unable to release further details at this time due to the ongoing nature of the investigation. However, sources close to the case suggest that forensic scientists are working to determine the cause of death and whether any additional suspects were involved in Lee’s disappearance and death.

The Lee family, while devastated by the confirmation of their loved one’s fate, expressed gratitude to law enforcement for their persistence in solving the case. In a brief statement, the family said:

“We have prayed for answers for nearly three years, and while this is not the outcome we hoped for, we are grateful to have found Jay. We ask for privacy as we grieve and prepare to lay him to rest.”

Community Reaction and Calls for Justice

The discovery of Lee’s remains has reignited public interest in the case, with many expressing frustration over the mistrial and concerns about whether justice will be served. Activists and supporters who followed the case since 2022 are planning vigils and gatherings in Lee’s memory, urging prosecutors to press forward with a retrial and pursue justice with renewed determination.

Mississippi law enforcement agencies, alongside federal partners, have pledged to continue investigating all aspects of the case. The Lee family, along with their supporters, remain hopeful that new evidence will bring clarity and closure.

What Happens Next?

With Lee’s remains now officially identified, forensic experts will continue their analysis in hopes of determining the cause and manner of death. Prosecutors will likely review all available evidence to determine their next steps in pursuing charges against Herrington or any additional persons of interest.

While authorities remain tight-lipped about specific investigative details, they assure the public that they are committed to delivering justice for Jimmie “Jay” Lee.

This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more details emerge.