Texas Attorney General Confirms Remains of Missing Texas State Student Jason Landry Found
SAN MARCOS, Texas — Human remains discovered in Caldwell County, Texas, have been conclusively identified as 21-year-old Texas State University student Jason Landry, who vanished nearly six years ago. Landry went missing on December 13, 2020, while traveling from his apartment in San Marcos to his family’s home in Missouri City for the Christmas holidays. His 2003 Nissan Altima was subsequently found crashed and abandoned along Salt Flat Road near Luling, Texas, with personal belongings located in and around the vehicle, initiating a years-long multi-agency search.
Published by Global Report Center
SAN MARCOS, Texas — Human remains discovered in Caldwell County, Texas, have been conclusively identified as 21-year-old Texas State University student Jason Landry, who vanished nearly six years ago. Landry went missing on December 13, 2020, while traveling from his apartment in San Marcos to his family’s home in Missouri City for the Christmas holidays. His 2003 Nissan Altima was subsequently found crashed and abandoned along Salt Flat Road near Luling, Texas, with personal belongings located in and around the vehicle, initiating a years-long multi-agency search.
On September 8, 2026, a local resident discovered skeletal remains in a rural area east of Salt Flat Road, between Soda Springs Road and Biggs Road in Caldwell County—located about a mile outside the original established search boundary. Law enforcement secured the scene and submitted the remains to the University of North Texas Center for Human Identification for forensic DNA analysis. On September 23, 2026, officials formally confirmed that the DNA profile matched Landry.
Official Investigation and Medical Analysis
The Texas Attorney General’s Cold Case and Missing Persons Unit—working alongside the Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office, Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), and Texas Search and Rescue—issued an official statement following the identification. Forensic analysts reported that the examination of the skeletal remains provided no immediate determination regarding the cause or manner of death.
Authorities noted that there is currently no physical evidence indicating foul play, though state investigators maintain an open file as they continue to review the timeline following the discovery of his vehicle. Law enforcement officials cautioned against unverified speculation while investigative reviews remain active.
Community Impact and Family Statement
The formal identification brings resolution to a six-year search that involved law enforcement, volunteer drone operators, and search teams across Central Texas. Landry's family released a statement expressing profound grief while extending gratitude to the Almighty, search teams, law enforcement, and the public for their prayers and support throughout the years of uncertainty. Family members have requested privacy as they prepare to bring Jason home and finalize memorial arrangements.
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