Ovett, Mississippi – Jones County Authorities Investigating Death of Local Man Found in Home
A somber mood hangs over the small community of Ovett in Jones County, Mississippi, following the discovery of a man’s body inside a home on North Pumping Station Road. The Jones County Coroner’s Office has now confirmed the identity of the deceased as 52-year-old James Ray Labat.
The discovery was made on Monday, prompting a swift response from the Jones County Sheriff’s Department (JCSD). Deputies arrived on the scene shortly after receiving a report of an unresponsive person inside the residence. Upon arrival, they found Labat deceased. His body was located inside the home under circumstances that investigators have not yet fully disclosed to the public.
Coroner Burl Hall officially identified Labat and confirmed that an autopsy would be conducted to determine the exact cause and manner of death. “At this time, we are awaiting forensic results and will continue to work with law enforcement in determining how Mr. Labat died,” Hall stated. The coroner’s office has not released additional details pending the outcome of the investigation and medical examination.
Meanwhile, the JCSD’s Criminal Investigation Division (CID) has taken over the case, treating the situation as an active death investigation. Authorities have emphasized that while the cause of death remains undetermined, they are leaving no stone unturned in gathering evidence and speaking with individuals who may have had recent contact with Labat.
Residents in the quiet, rural area of North Pumping Station Road have expressed shock and concern over the incident. Many describe the community as peaceful and tight-knit, with little history of violent crime. News of the investigation has stirred anxiety among neighbors, who are now awaiting answers as law enforcement continues its work.
So far, officials have not indicated whether foul play is suspected or whether there are any persons of interest connected to the case. Investigators have been seen canvassing the area, interviewing potential witnesses, and processing the home where Labat’s body was found.
“We are treating this investigation with the seriousness it deserves,” a JCSD spokesperson said Tuesday afternoon. “Our team is working diligently, and we urge anyone with information that might be relevant to contact our office.”
James Ray Labat, whose life came to an unexpected and tragic end, was known by some in the community as a quiet and private individual. While not much has been made public about his personal background or family life, his death has clearly left an impact on the surrounding area.
As the investigation continues, the Jones County Sheriff’s Department is asking the public to be patient while they gather facts and conduct interviews. “These cases take time, especially when we want to ensure accuracy and justice,” the spokesperson added.
The JCSD has encouraged anyone who may have seen or heard anything unusual in the vicinity of North Pumping Station Road over the weekend or in the early hours of Monday to reach out. Even small observations, they say, could help piece together what led to Labat’s death.
As of now, no arrests have been made and no further details have been released regarding the circumstances surrounding the case. Authorities are expected to provide more updates once the autopsy is complete and investigators are able to establish more definitive findings.
The people of Jones County are left waiting for clarity and answers—hoping that truth, justice, and closure will soon follow for the life lost and the mystery still unfolding.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Jones County Sheriff’s Department Criminal Investigation Division.
