Trial Begins in the Mysterious Case of Missing Ole Miss Student
OXFORD, Miss. — A chilling trial is unfolding here as a man faces charges for the murder of a missing University of Mississippi student, whose whereabouts remain unknown to this day. The accused, Sheldon “Timothy” Herrington Jr., has pled not guilty to the alleged murder of Jimmie “Jay” Lee III, a vibrant figure in the local LGBTQ+ community.
A Mysterious Disappearance
Jimmie Lee was reported missing on July 8, 2022. Known for his engaging personality, he often dazzled audiences with his drag performances, making his disappearance all the more shocking to friends and family. The Oxford Police Department quickly joined forces with campus authorities to search for Lee, raising concerns about his safety.
Just days after his disappearance, Lee’s vehicle was found parked at a local towing company in the Molly Barr Trails apartment complex. According to police reports, Lee was last spotted around 5:58 a.m. on the day he went missing, dressed in a silver robe, a gold cap, and gray slippers. Investigators believe he may have been on his way to visit someone at the Molly Barr location when he vanished without a trace.
A Connection Emerges
As the investigation unfolded, prosecutors revealed that Herrington and Lee had known each other for about four months before the incident. Surprisingly, the two had recently entered into a romantic relationship. During a bond hearing in August 2022, it was disclosed that police had access to cell phone conversations between the two men, which took place on the morning of Lee’s disappearance.
Perhaps most startling, investigators found that Herrington had searched the internet for “how long it takes to strangle someone” shortly after receiving a text from Lee indicating he was headed to Herrington’s apartment. This revelation has only intensified the intrigue surrounding this complicated case.
The Emotional Toll
Lee’s family has been devastated by his disappearance. While they still hold out hope for closure, a judge declared him dead in October 2022 at the request of his parents. This heartbreaking decision speaks volumes about the family’s struggle as they cope with the loss of their loved one.
The Trial and What’s at Stake
The trial has drawn significant attention, largely because of the sensitive nature of the case and the discussions around Lee’s sexuality. In recent statements to the jury, Lafayette County District Attorney Ben Creekmore suggested that Herrington might have murdered Lee to conceal his own homosexuality. Meanwhile, defense attorney Kevin Horan has pointed to potential suspects that police may not have fully investigated, urging the jury to consider other explanations.
The courtroom atmosphere has been heavy with tension as graphic messages exchanged between Herrington and Lee were presented as evidence. These intimate and revealing texts have painted a complex picture of their relationship, raising questions about motive and circumstance surrounding Lee’s tragic fate.
Community Reactions
As the trial progresses, the community is holding its breath, eager for answers in this perplexing case. Friends and allies of Jimmie Lee are coming together, demanding justice not only for Lee himself but also for the wider LGBTQ+ community that he represented so passionately.
With no sign of Lee’s body and a wide array of evidence leading in different directions, this trial serves as a stark reminder of the unresolved mysteries that continue to haunt Oxford. As more details emerge, residents hope for clarity and resolution, a chance for healing amid the uncertainties that surround them.
Stay Tuned
The trial continues, and many are certain to be watching closely as this story unfolds. With lives at stake and a community seeking closure, the search for truth—and justice—remains a top priority.
Author: STAFF HERE OXFORD WRITER
The OXFORD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOxford.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Oxford, Lafayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Oxford Film Festival, Double Decker Arts Festival, and University of Mississippi football games. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce and the University of Mississippi, plus leading businesses in education and retail that power the local economy such as Ole Miss Athletics and Square Books. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
