Remains of Texas Student Who Vanished in 2020 Identified
DNA confirmation provides closure in the case of Jason Landry, missing since he crashed his car on his way home for Christmas.
The skeletal remains of Jason Landry, a Texas State University student who disappeared nearly six years ago, have been identified through DNA testing, according to the Texas Attorney General’s Office. Landry vanished on December 13, 2020, after he crashed his car while driving from San Marcos to his family’s home in Missouri City for the Christmas holiday.
His vehicle was found abandoned on a rural road in Luling, with his phone and wallet inside. Some of his clothing was also discovered scattered in the vicinity. Despite extensive searches by law enforcement, volunteer groups, and aerial surveillance over several years, Landry remained missing.
In September, a resident in Caldwell County, approximately 50 miles from Austin, discovered skeletal remains while cutting grass on their property. The remains were later identified as belonging to Landry. Officials stated that the discovery offers no new insights into the cause of his death and that there are currently no indications of foul play.
In 2022, the Texas Attorney General’s Cold Case and Missing Persons Unit took over the investigation. The Attorney General’s office confirmed that Landry’s family has been notified of the identification.
“This development marks a critical moment in a case that has weighed heavily on our hearts for nearly six years,” said Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. “The Landry family has suffered an unimaginable tragedy, and they will remain in our prayers, especially during this incredibly difficult time.”
Volunteer organizations, such as TEXSAR, a nonprofit search and rescue group, had dedicated significant time and resources to searching for Landry across Caldwell County. Shawn Hohnstreiter, co-founder of TEXSAR, noted that finding Landry had become a significant part of many volunteers' lives over the past six years.