Investigation ongoing.
On March 19. 2025, Lieutenant Cham Buchanan of the Sharp County Sheriff”s Office responded to a report of human remains discovered on Cougar Road in Sulphur Rock. The remains were located in a wooded area adjacent to the residence, specifically uphili from a creek bed identified as a stream branching off Caney Creek. A skull and what appeared to be a vertebra were recovered at the scene and promptly sent to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory for analysis. Subsequent| searches, including the use of a human remains detection K9, led to the discovery of additional remains.
On April 8, 2025, Lieutenant Buchanan was notified by the State Crime Lab that DNA analysis had confirmed the remains belonged to Johnny Ray Bagwell. Mr. Bagwell was reported missing to the Cave City Police Department by family members in June 2024. Family members stated they had not seen or heard from Johnny Ray Bagwell since July 2023. At this time, the cause and manner of death remain undetermined due to limited available information and the circumstances surrounding Mr. Bagwell’s disappearance. The case remains an open and active investigation. The Sharp County Sheriff’s Office urges anyone with information about the disappearance or death of Johnny Ray Bagwell to come forward.
Your assistance could be vital in helping bring clarity and closure to this case. The family of Johnny Ray Bagwell has requested privacy during this difficult time as they grieve their loss.They are not receiving communications at this time and deeply appreciate the understanding and support shown by the community.
