Jimmie “Jay” Lee and his accused killer Timothy Herrington (Mugshot from Oxford Police Department)
The remains of Jimmie “Jay” Lee, a University of Mississippi student who disappeared nearly three years ago, have been confirmed to be recovered, according to both Oxford police and Carroll County deputies. This marks a significant development in a case that has remained a focal point for law enforcement and the Oxford community since Jay Lee’s mysterious disappearance in 2022.
On Saturday, February 1, 2025, Carroll County deputies contacted Oxford police after the remains of a human were discovered in their jurisdiction. The remains were found by deer hunters in a remote area of the county. Upon discovery, authorities immediately launched a joint investigation, with the collaboration of the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, Oxford Police Department, and the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation (MBI).
The remains were sent to the Mississippi State Crime Lab for DNA testing. Following an intense forensic analysis, the lab confirmed on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, that the remains belonged to Jimmie “Jay” Lee, whose disappearance on July 8, 2022, had left both family and friends desperate for answers.
Oxford Police Chief Jeff McCutchen expressed his gratitude for the support the department has received throughout the investigation, particularly from Lee’s family and friends. “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,” said Chief McCutchen in a statement.
The discovery of Jay Lee’s remains is a major step forward in a case that had already involved the arrest of Sheldon Timothy Herrington. Herrington is accused of killing Lee, allegedly to cover up an illicit romantic relationship. He was charged with murder, and his trial in December 2024 ended in a mistrial. Despite the legal setback, police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Lee’s death.
While authorities have confirmed the identity of the remains, further details regarding the investigation remain unavailable. The Oxford Police Department and other law enforcement agencies involved are committed to continuing their work on the case.