JACKSON, Miss. — The desperate search for 3-year-old Janae McGill has come to a devastating end. On Friday afternoon, Hinds County Sheriff Tyree Jones confirmed that Janae’s body was found near the same Alabama location where her mother, Shardee McGill, had been discovered dead just one day earlier.
Authorities reported that Shardee’s body was located Thursday in a shallow body of water near Epes, Alabama, a small town in Sumter County close to the Mississippi border. Less than 24 hours later, search teams located Janae’s remains in the surrounding area, ending a multi-day search effort that had gripped both Mississippi and Alabama communities.
A Family Tragedy
Shardee McGill, 33, and her daughter Janae were reported missing in late September. Their disappearance sparked widespread concern across Jackson, with law enforcement launching a multi-agency search. The case took a heartbreaking turn when Shardee’s body was discovered in Alabama on Thursday, September 25.
By Friday, September 26, the hope of finding Janae alive was shattered when her small body was found nearby. Sheriff Tyree Jones wrote on social media:
“It is with great sadness that I report that 3-year-old Janae McGill has been located deceased. She was found near the same area in Sumter County, Alabama, where her mother was found on yesterday. This investigation is ongoing, and our thoughts are with the McGill family.”
Father in Custody
Following the grim discovery, attention has turned toward Janae’s father, Johnathan McGill, who was taken into custody earlier this week. Authorities have not released specific charges against him but have indicated he remains a central figure in the investigation.
Law enforcement officials are continuing to piece together the events that led to the deaths of Shardee and Janae, but details remain scarce. Investigators are working closely across county and state lines to ensure every lead is pursued.
Community in Shock
The deaths of Shardee and Janae McGill have left the Jackson community devastated. Vigils are being planned in their memory, and neighbors describe the tragedy as “unimaginable.”
Community leaders have urged residents to come together, both to mourn and to support law enforcement in uncovering the truth. Social media has been flooded with tributes for Shardee, described as a loving mother, and Janae, remembered as a joyful little girl whose life was cut far too short.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities in both Mississippi and Alabama stress that the investigation remains active and that updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
For now, the focus remains on seeking justice for Shardee and Janae while providing support to their grieving family and community.
“This is a heartbreaking day for all of us,” Sheriff Jones said. “Our prayers are with the McGill family as they endure this unthinkable loss.”
Reported by NewsPulse Reporter | NewsPulse Media