JACKSON, MS – A Mississippi man and his wife have been arrested after human remains were discovered buried in the backyard of his elderly mother’s home, authorities announced this week.
John Ryan, 50, and Samantha Ryan, 48, each face charges of desecration of a human corpse following the grim discovery at the Jackson residence.
Carol Ryan, 81, was reported missing on Monday by family members who told police she had been out of contact for several months. The concerning report prompted investigators to obtain a search warrant for her property.
Jackson Police Chief Tyree Jones directed the search operation, which included a systematic examination of the house, land, and vehicles at the residence. On Tuesday evening, investigators uncovered human remains in a grave in the backyard.
While the coroner has not yet officially identified the remains, authorities believe they belong to the missing woman.
John Ryan, the victim’s son, was ordered held on $100,000 bond. His wife Samantha Ryan was assigned a bond of $75,000.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine the circumstances surrounding Carol Ryan’s death and how long her remains may have been buried on the property.
Police have not disclosed whether additional charges may be forthcoming as forensic examination of the remains continues.
