Missing Virginia Teen Shayln Harvey Found Dead in Big Chimney Home, Stepfather Arrested

Human remains discovered at a home in West Virginia have been identified as those of a missing 16-year-old girl, and her stepfather has been arrested in connection with the case, authorities announced on May 18.

According to the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, the remains were found on May 15 inside a residence in Big Chimney belonging to Shayln Shantel Harvey, who had been missing for approximately two weeks.

“An autopsy was performed this morning, and the remains have been positively identified as those of Shayln Shantel Harvey,” the release stated.

Investigators have since launched a homicide investigation while the state medical examiner continues working to determine the teen’s exact cause of death.

Authorities said Harvey was last seen on May 2 in Big Chimney in Kanawha County. According to local reports, her stepfather, James Warren Truman, 52, reported her missing two days later.

Investigators had previously searched the property after Harvey disappeared. On May 15, authorities returned with cadaver dogs and a search warrant.

“We obtained a search warrant. We're executing the search warrant. They're looking for any evidence of where Shayln may be,” Chief Deputy Sean Snuffer said during a press conference that day. “We also brought some cadaver dogs from the West Virginia Search and Rescue. They're currently on the property assisting us as well.”

Truman was arrested on May 8. It was days before the remains were found, according to West Virginia Jails and Corrections records cited by local media.

He is now facing a charge of se**al abuse by a parent, guardian, custodian, or another person in a position of trust to a child. Authorities have not announced additional charges tied to Harvey’s death.

Metro News reported that Truman is being held on $100,000 bail. Officials claim that Harvey’s remains were found in the same home where she lived with her mother and stepfather.

Investigators continued to work at the property through the weekend as evidence teams processed the scene and interviewed witnesses.

The Sheriff’s Office has shared that the detectives are still looking for leads and are urging people with information about Harvey’s disappearance to come forward.

“Investigators will continue conducting interviews, processing evidence, and following up on all leads associated with this case,” authorities added.

Authorities also offered condolences to Harvey’s loved ones as the community was stunned by the discovery.

“The Kanawha County Sheriff's Office extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Shalyn Harvey during this difficult time,” they said.