Jackson police executed a search warrant at the home of 81-year-old Carol Ryan, who had been missing for several months. During the search, a dog alerted investigators to a grave in the backyard, where excavators uncovered unidentified human remains wrapped in a tarp and buried with concrete. Authorities are conducting a death investigation and believe the remains may belong to Ryan, though confirmation awaits coroner and medical examiner analysis. Ryan lived at the home with her son and daughter-in-law, who have been detained for questioning, with possible criminal charges pending.

Initially reported missing by a family member, Ryan was last believed to be residing in a nursing home in Brandon but had not been heard from for months. Police had entered her information into the National Crime Information Center database and sought public assistance in locating her. The investigation continues as officials work to determine the identity of the remains and the circumstances surrounding Ryan’s disappearance and death.