Authorities in Shelby County are investigating the death of a 26-year-old county employee who was reported missing last week and was later found deceased inside a vehicle at an elementary school parking lot.
The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) confirmed that Donnell Roberts, who had been missing since earlier in the week, was found dead inside his car in the parking lot of Winridge Elementary School. Officials have not released details regarding the exact time the vehicle was discovered or the circumstances leading to his death. The cause and manner of death have not been officially determined and remain under investigation.
Roberts was last heard from around 8 p.m. Monday, according to the sheriff’s office. Investigators said he was last seen leaving the area of Macon and Whitten roads in the Cordova area. At the time of his disappearance, he was reportedly wearing a white shirt and gray shorts and was driving a white 2017 Nissan Altima with Tennessee license plates and noticeable front bumper damage.
A BOLO (Be On The Lookout) alert for Roberts was issued on Christmas Eve after family members and authorities grew increasingly concerned about his whereabouts. The alert described Roberts as standing approximately 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighing about 165 pounds. No additional details were provided at the time regarding what may have led to his disappearance.
Shelby County Circuit Court Clerk Jamita Swearingen confirmed that Roberts was an employee of her office, prompting concern among colleagues and county officials as search efforts continued. Following the discovery of his body, the BOLO was canceled.
In the wake of the news, attention has turned to social media posts Roberts shared in 2023, including one that read, “Ain gone lie. Ion feel loved at all. But ion care.” Authorities have not commented on the relevance of any past social media activity, and officials caution against drawing conclusions while the investigation is ongoing.
The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office has not indicated whether foul play is suspected, nor have they released information about any medical findings. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation or medical examiner may be involved as part of standard procedure.
SCSO officials say the case remains under active investigation, and more information will be released once it becomes available. They continue to encourage anyone with information related to Roberts’ movements prior to his disappearance to contact the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office.
Roberts’ death has left family members, friends, and coworkers mourning the loss of a young public servant whose life ended unexpectedly. County officials have expressed condolences and emphasized the importance of community awareness and support during times of crisis.