In the autumn of 2018, concern began to grow for the well-being of 45-year-old James Earl Bandy Jr. in Newport News, Virginia. He was last seen by his father in the downtown area of the city, a familiar place for the family. The last confirmed contact with James was on November 5, 2018. Described as a Black male, standing at 5 feet 6 inches and weighing around 154 pounds, James was a noticeable figure in his community. He had black hair, which was balding on top, brown eyes, and typically wore a mustache and goatee. Distinctive tattoos adorned his arms: 'Shella' on his left arm, and 'James Jr' on his right arm, which appeared to be overwritten with rudimentary diamonds. His health presented daily challenges; he walked with a limp and had previously suffered a stroke. Some reports also indicated that he used a wheelchair for mobility.
The weeks and months following James's last sighting were filled with uncertainty for his loved ones. Information regarding the specific circumstances of his disappearance remained scarce. The official report of his disappearance was not filed with the Newport News Police Department until September 24, 2019, nearly a year after he was last in contact with anyone. This delay in reporting added another layer of complexity to the investigation, as the trail had grown cold. Law enforcement was aware of his existence prior to the report, having last been in contact with him in November of 2018, but the reasons for that interaction are not publicly detailed.
The search for James continued for years, a period of anguish and unanswered questions for his family and friends. Tragically, the case concluded with the discovery of his passing. James Earl Bandy Jr. died on June 2, 2025, in Petersburg, Virginia, at the age of 52. An obituary lovingly remembers him as a man who grew up in Newport News, attended Warwick High School, and remained a proud member of his community. He was known for his steady, kind, and easygoing nature, always ready with a helping hand or a laugh. His love for college basketball and, most importantly, for his family, are cherished memories for those he left behind. The case of James Earl Bandy Jr. is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the deep void left when a loved one goes missing. It highlights the pain of not knowing, followed by the profound grief of a life lost too soon. He is survived by his daughter, son, brother, sister, and cousins.
Last Seen: Nov 5, 2018
