Missing Lamar County Man Found Dead After Extensive Search; Vehicle Recovered from Lake

Lamar County, MS (BuzzReport)— A search that gripped the Lamar County community has ended in tragedy after authorities confirmed that a missing man was found dead inside his vehicle in a lake near the area where he was last seen.

According to the Lamar County Sheriff’s Office, Stacey Graves, who had been reported missing after disappearing late Saturday night, was located along with his 2016 dark gray hard-top Jeep Wrangler submerged in a lake not far from where investigators believe he was last seen.

In a statement released following the discovery, the sheriff’s office said:

“Sad to say we located the victim and his Jeep in a lake not far from where he was last heard from. Our hearts and prayers are with the family. Prayers also for all of the Lamar County personnel and departments who worked tirelessly to locate him.”

Graves was last seen around 9:40 p.m. Saturday as he was leaving a family barbecue at a relative’s home in the Frontier development off Old Highway 42 in Lamar County.

Before the discovery, authorities had issued a public appeal for help locating Graves. Investigators said he was driving a 2016 dark gray Jeep Wrangler with black rims, displaying Jones County license plate JP8-211.

Graves, a Black male born in 1965, was described as approximately 6 feet tall, weighing 280 pounds, and was last seen wearing blue jeans and a black polo shirt featuring an auto parts company logo.

The search involved multiple Lamar County agencies and emergency personnel who worked around the clock in an effort to locate Graves. Officials thanked everyone who assisted in the search, including first responders and members of the public who shared information.

At this time, authorities have not released details regarding what led to the Jeep entering the water or the circumstances surrounding Graves’ death. The investigation remains ongoing as officials work to determine exactly what happened.

The tragic discovery has left family members, friends, and the Lamar County community mourning the loss of a man whose disappearance sparked widespread concern over the weekend.

The BuzzReport extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Stacey Graves during this difficult time. Authorities are expected to release additional information as the investigation continues.