LULING, Texas – Human remains discovered in Caldwell County have been identified as Jason Landry, a 21-year-old Texas State University student who vanished in December 2020 following a car crash, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced.
DNA testing performed by the University of North Texas Center for Human Identification confirmed the match after a local resident found the remains on Sept. 8, 2026. The remains were located east of Salt Flat Road, between Soda Springs and Biggs Road.
Investigators reported that the skeletal remains did not provide additional details regarding the cause or manner of death, and authorities found no indication of foul play.
What Happened the Night Jason Landry Vanished
Landry was a 21-year-old junior at Texas State University when he packed his 2003 Nissan Altima on the night of Dec. 13, 2020, to drive home to Missouri City for Christmas vacation.
Shortly after midnight, a volunteer firefighter discovered his car wrecked and abandoned along a remote dirt stretch of Salt Flat Road outside Luling.
The vehicle’s lights were on, the keys were missing from the ignition, and Landry’s cellphone, wallet, and clothing were found scattered nearby.
Despite an extensive search covering more than 50 square miles on foot, by horseback, and with aircraft, search teams found no trace of Landry in the days immediately following the crash.
Last week, Caldwell County deputies confirmed the discovery of skeletal remains along Biggs Road, setting into motion the forensic testing that finally delivered answers to investigators and the Landry family.
Over the nearly six years since his disappearance, the Attorney General’s Cold Case Unit conducted ground and aerial searches, reexamined evidence, and followed up on leads. The investigation involved the Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office, the Texas Department of Public Safety, Texas Search and Rescue, and citizen volunteers.
“This development marks a critical moment in a case that has weighed heavily on our hearts for nearly six years. The Landry family has suffered an unimaginable tragedy, and they will remain in our prayers, especially during this incredibly difficult time,” Paxton said in a statement. “My Cold Case Unit will continue fighting to solve cases and bring closure on behalf of Texas families and victims.”
Landry’s family has been notified of the identification. Participating agencies requested privacy for the family, noting that additional details will be released as appropriate.
