Sulphur Rock, Ark. — Human remains discovered last month in a wooded area near Cougar Road have been positively identified as those of a Cave City man reported missing in 2024, according to local authorities.
Lieutenant Cham Buchanan with the Sharp County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene on March 19, after receiving a report that human remains had been found near a residence in Sulphur Rock. The remains were located uphill from a creek bed that connects to Caney Creek.
Initial findings at the scene included a human skull and what appeared to be a vertebra. Those remains were submitted to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory for identification. Subsequent searches of the area, including the use of a human remains detection K9, led to the recovery of additional remains.
On April 8, the State Crime Lab confirmed the identity of the remains through DNA analysis as Johnny Ray Bagwell, who was reported missing by family members to the Cave City Police Department in June 2024. His relatives told authorities they had not seen or heard from Bagwell since July 2023.
Authorities say the cause and manner of death remain undetermined, citing limited available information and the length of time since Bagwell’s disappearance. The case remains an open and active investigation.
The Sharp County Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone with information about Bagwell’s disappearance or death to come forward. Officials stress that even small details could prove crucial in moving the investigation forward.
In a statement shared with local media, Bagwell’s family said:
“We are saddened to find out that our dad, Johnny (Tiger) Bagwell has died. We appreciate everyone that helped spread the word about his disappearance and the work of local and state authorities as they continue to investigate his death. Please do not contact the family and respect their privacy during this time. Thank you all for your kind words and prayers.”
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Sharp County Sheriff’s Office.
