The disappearance of Jessica Paige Kemp, a 32‑year‑old camping enthusiast, has gripped Northeast Arkansas since she vanished from Lake Ashbaugh. In a chilling development, skeletal remains have been recovered near the very lake where she was last seen, perhaps offering a pivotal breakthrough in the case.
Kemp’s disappearance
Kemp, a Paragould resident originally from Munford, Tennessee, embarked on a solo camping excursion on May 5, 2025, at Lake Ashbaugh in Greene County. Known for her love of the outdoors and her familiarity with Arkansas’s trails, Kemp was reported missing when she failed to check in with family after several days. Authorities initiated a large‑scale search covering approximately 25,000 acres amid concerns due to her communication devices—keys, phone, debit card, and jewelry—found at the campsite.
Controversy: The 911 call the night before
A key controversy emerged surrounding a 911 call made by Kemp the night before her disappearance. According to TikTok posts, Kemp had reached out for assistance while camping alone. Critics noted that body cameras were not activated when deputies responded, spawning debate over potential mishandling.
The sequence of events and law enforcement’s decisions have since fueled social media speculation, with some accusing officials of negligence or a possible cover‑up.
Discovery of skeletal remains
On June 10, 2025, Greene County Sheriff Brad Snyder announced that skeletal remains were discovered southwest of Lake Ashbaugh. A search team followed a strong odor associated with decomposition and located the remains in an advanced state. The timing and location strongly align with Kemp’s disappearance, according to local authorities. The remains were found in a densely wooded area just southwest of Lake Ashbaugh.
Unconfirmed social media reports say Kemp’s mother has confirmed the remains belong to Jessica. The Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division is collaborating with the Greene County Sheriff’s Office to perform DNA analysis and formally identify the body.
What happens next
Officials have confirmed that the remains have been submitted for forensic testing. Until DNA testing is finished, the identity of the remains and the exact circumstances surrounding their origin remain uncertain. The sheriff’s office is urging the public to remain patient and not to speculate until lab findings are confirmed.
“I am going to search until the day I die”
Kemp’s family remains hopeful yet devastated. Her mother, Sandy Kemp, has said: “I am going to search until the day I die … we will bring her home.” They continue to assist investigators and welcome any tips. Authorities are also examining Kemp’s electronic devices and any possible leads tied to the night of her 911 call.
The recovery of skeletal remains near Lake Ashbaugh marks both a critical and somber turning point in the Jessica Paige Kemp case. While identification through DNA is pending, law enforcement and the Kemp family are closely watching for confirmation.
As the investigation progresses, the community and national observers await definitive answers about how a promising camping trip ended in tragedy. Updates will follow once forensic results and official statements are released.
Published: Jun 11, 2025 04:57 pm