Nationwide — Shae Gandy, an African American mother from Waynesboro, Mississippi, is still searching for her 19-year-old son, John Gandy, who has been missing since January. It has been six months since he first went missing, but she is holding on to hope for answers and justice.
John disappeared on January 8 after getting into a red vehicle on Holly Bush Church Road in Waynesboro. Since then, there’s been no contact, no sightings, and no trace of where he might have gone.
Shae said some tips suggest John may have been set up and possibly shot. Later that month, she and community members searched the area, but the search turned up nothing. Despite the dead ends, she says the people of Wayne County continue to support her emotionally and remain involved.
“It’s overwhelming,” Gandy told WLBT. “I am very tired.”
The Wayne County Sheriff’s Office says it’s still following leads and has partnered with Crime Stoppers to offer a reward. Shae hopes new leadership in the area, including a new mayor, will help move the investigation forward.
“Any leads, small or big, that you might have heard or may know, don’t be afraid to reach out,” said Gandy.
Even after six months, Shae refuses to give up. She remains focused on finding the truth. John is described as a Black male, about 5 feet 7 inches tall, 140 pounds, with brown eyes and short black twists.
“I’m 100% committed,” Gandy said. “I’m determined to get answers for my family, to get closure for my family, and to get the justice that John deserves.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Waynesboro Police Department or the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office.