What Happened to Jason Landry? Texas College Student Missing for 3 Years

Christmas has become a solemn time for one Texas family as they search for answers about what happened to one of their own who vanished three years ago, KHOU-TV reports.

On December 13, 2020, Texas State University student Jason Landry left campus in San Marcos for winter break and began driving to his family’s home in Missouri City, near Houston, as CrimeOnline previously reported.

He never made it.

The morning after the 21-year-old was supposed to arrive, a passerby came across his vehicle on a remote stretch of road off his regular route near the city of Luling, about 30 miles from the university. The car had crashed into a fence, and Jason’s clothing, phone, and wallet were found in the vicinity, according to KPRC-TV.

Jason has not been seen since that day, but his family and friends have not given up hope. On Friday, they went to the crash site, gathered for a vigil and prayed. The group also planned to search the area this weekend.

“I never in my wildest dreams would think that here we would be three years later,” Kent Landry, Jason’s dad, told KHOU-TV. “As a pastor, I’ve walked through the stages of grief through many a family, but unfortunately for my family, we can’t grieve because we still have to hold out hope, and if not hope, you can’t begin to grieve until you know that person is gone.”

Earlier this week, the Texas Attorney General’s Office issued a statement about Jason’s disappearance. The office said it continues to be committed to finding Jason and “pursuing all credible information received from the public.”

Although authorities said it appeared Jason had exited the vehicle of his own volition and there was no evidence at the scene of foul play, his family wonders if foul play might have been involved.

Whatever happened, Kent said he just wants Jason back.

“I can tell you, as a dad, I would give anything, anything to put my arms around my son,” Kent told KTRK-TV.

A $20,000 reward is being offered for information that leads to Jason’s return.

For the latest true crime and justice news, subscribe to the ‘Crime Stories with Nancy Grace’ podcast.  

Join Nancy Grace for her new online video series designed to help you protect what you love most — your children.

[Feature Photo: Jason Landry/Family Handout]