In the quiet community of Spanaway, Washington, a deeply unfortunate incident led to the unresolved case of an unclaimed individual named John M. Shager. On July 5, 2011, John M. Shager's life came to a tragic end when his airway was obstructed by a food bolus, resulting in death from complications related to choking. His case was registered with the NamUs under ID UCP3198.
John M. Shager was a resident of an adult family home at the time of his passing. Despite the circumstances surrounding his death, a notable aspect of John's story is the absence of close family. The only relative identified was a cousin, who declined to claim John's remains, citing estrangement. As a result, John's connection to the world became even more tenuous, marked by an enduring sense of isolation.
In accordance with the policies of the Pierce County Medical Examiner's Office, located at 3619 Pacific Avenue, Tacoma, Washington, the cremated remains of John M. Shager remained unclaimed for over a year. Consequently, on August 30, 2017, the staff of the Medical Examiner's Office organized a respectful and solemn ceremony. During this ceremony, John's ashes were scattered at sea, ensuring a final resting place for the decedent whose life concluded with such anonymity. The agency involved in this case was the Pierce County Medical Examiner's Office, and for any inquiries, their contact number is 253-798-6494. John's case remained a poignant reminder of how lives can quietly slip away, leaving a minimal trace behind.
Date Found: 07/05/2011
