Remains of 16-year-old girl found after her stepfather was accused of incestuous abuse
Shayln Shantel Harvey's remains were found in the home where she lived with her mother and stepfather in West Virginia
Human remains found at a West Virginia residence were identified as belonging to a 16-year-old girl who disappeared earlier this month.
On Monday, May 18, the Kanawha County Sheriff's Office revealed in a press release that the discovery occurred during a search of a home in Big Chimney on Friday, May 15.
“An autopsy was performed this morning and the remains have been positively identified as those of Shayln Shantel Harvey,” the statement stated.
According to Metro News, authorities had visited the property after Harvey's stepfather, James Truman, 52, reported him missing on May 4.
A previous statement from authorities details that Harvey was last seen in the Big Chimney area of Kanawha County on Saturday, May 2.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Sean Snuffer confirmed to 12WBOY that Truman had been arrested on Harvey-related charges.
Citing the West Virginia Department of Jails and Corrections, 12WBOY reported that Truman was arrested on May 8, 2026 and faces a charge of “sexual abuse by a parent, guardian, custodian or other person in a position of trust with respect to a minor.”
The young woman's remains were found in the house where she lived with her mother and stepfather. While Harvey's cause of death is still being investigated by the medical examiner, authorities have opened a homicide investigation, according to their latest update.
“Investigators will continue to conduct interviews, process evidence and follow up on all leads related to this case,” authorities added, noting that those with information should contact the Sheriff's Office.