Unidentified human remains were discovered buried in a makeshift grave in the backyard of 81-year-old Carol Ryan’s home in Jackson, Mississippi, after she was reported missing on December 20, 2025, despite not being heard from for months. The remains, wrapped in a tarp and covered with concrete in a 6-8 foot deep hole, were found during a police search on December 23 using excavators. Authorities note the burial occurred long before the missing person report.​
Arrests and Charges
Carol Ryan’s son, John Ryan (50), and daughter-in-law, Samantha Ryan (48), were arrested on December 24 and charged with desecration of a human corpse. John faces a $100,000 bond, while Samantha faces $75,000, both held at Hinds County Jail. Police Chief Tyree Jones indicated more charges could follow as the investigation continues.​
Ongoing Investigation
Carol Ryan remains listed as missing pending forensic identification of the remains and determination of cause of death by the medical examiner. Initial reports that she was at a Brandon nursing home were incorrect, as she lived at the home with her son and daughter-in-law. No attorneys for the suspects have commented publicly.
