Remains Found in Kanawha County Identified as Missing Michigan Man; Authorities Investigating Death as Homicide

KANAWHA COUNTY, W.Va. (WCHS) – April 24, 2025 – 9:45 a.m. Update

Authorities in West Virginia have confirmed the identity of human remains discovered earlier this month in a remote area of Kanawha County as belonging to a man reported missing from Michigan. The death is now being investigated as a homicide, and police are asking for the public’s help in finding those responsible.

The Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office announced Thursday morning that the remains found over a hillside near Walnut Gap Road on April 15 have been identified as those of Lenard Pierre Jackson, a 38-year-old resident of Dundee, Michigan. Jackson had been reported missing to the Charleston Police Department on March 26, sparking weeks of concern from family and friends.

According to a news release issued by the sheriff’s office, the identification was made with the assistance of the West Virginia Medical Examiner’s Office, which is also conducting a full autopsy to determine the exact cause and manner of death. Authorities have not yet released the cause of death publicly but noted that it appeared inconsistent with natural causes.

“This is now officially being treated as a homicide investigation,” the sheriff’s office said in the statement. “The Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office and the Charleston Police Department are working closely together in a joint investigation to find answers and ensure justice for Mr. Jackson and his family.”

The remains were discovered in a secluded, wooded area off Walnut Gap Road, a narrow and less-traveled path located in the rural parts of Kanawha County. Deputies responded to a report of a body being found over a steep hillside, and upon arrival, they confirmed the presence of human remains in an advanced state of decomposition.

Due to the condition of the body, forensic identification took several days, and the case immediately raised red flags for investigators. A preliminary assessment suggested foul play, with officials describing the scene as “suspicious” and the death as “inconsistent with natural causes.”

The sheriff’s office emphasized that while the investigation remains active and ongoing, at this point, they believe the incident to be an isolated case. “There is no current threat to public safety,” the release said, reassuring nearby residents.

Law enforcement agencies across West Virginia and neighboring states have been asked to coordinate and share any information that might be relevant to Jackson’s case, particularly unsolved missing persons reports that could have ties to the region.

Jackson’s family, who had been searching for answers since he disappeared in late March, was notified of the identification shortly before the public announcement. In a somber statement, the sheriff’s office extended its condolences to his loved ones, promising to remain “fully committed to finding those responsible for this tragic loss.”

At this time, authorities have not named any suspects or persons of interest in connection with the case.

Anyone with tips or relevant information about Lenard Pierre Jackson’s disappearance or death is urged to contact the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office at 304-357-0556.

As the investigation continues to unfold, further updates will be provided by local law enforcement and the medical examiner’s office.

Timeline of Events:

• March 26, 2025: Lenard Pierre Jackson reported missing to Charleston Police Department.
• April 15, 2025: Human remains discovered off Walnut Gap Road in Kanawha County.
• April 16, 2025 (Initial Update): Authorities deem the circumstances surrounding the discovery suspicious, with decomposition hindering identification.
• April 24, 2025: Remains positively identified as Jackson; investigation officially declared a homicide.

This case marks another heartbreaking entry in a growing list of missing person cases that have ended in tragedy across the region. Law enforcement agencies continue to stress the importance of public assistance in breaking leads and solving these crimes.

Further details will be released as they become available.