In September 2025, the Shasta County Sheriff's Office Major Crimes Unit reopened the
disappearance of James Homer Wright Jr., a missing person case dating back to 1988. The case
took on new significance when James' mother recognized a pair of Nike high-top shoes
associated with unidentified remains recovered in a 1990 Shasta County Coroner's case. The
Redding Police Department worked jointly with the Shasta County Sheriff's Office to pursue the
lead.
It was learned that in the fall of 1990, unidentified remains were found on a small island on the
Sacramento River south of Bonnyview. A second search was conducted on the island in 1991
with additional remains found. DNA testing was not available in California until approximately
2004, with the Department of Justice being the sole agency capable of testing. The remains were
sent for testing in 2006. In 2007 the remains were only able to be identified as male.
Investigators obtained familial DNA samples, and the Redding Police Department coordinated
testing through the California Department of Justice and Othram. In March 2026, DNA analysis
positively identified the unidentified remains as those of James Homer Wright Jr. Following
additional investigative review to corroborate the findings, investigators from both agencies
notified James' family of the identification on July 15, 2026.
On today’s date, the Shasta County Coroner’s Office respectfully released James’ remains to his
family for burial. The Shasta County Sheriff’s Office and the Redding Police Department are
hopeful that the identification and return of James’ remains allows closure and healing for his
family and loved ones.
Case# SCSO90-23791
Contact: Tim Mapes, Public Information Officer
Phone: (530) 245-6149
Date: 08/06/2026
Date Found: 1990-10-20
