It has been nine years since 14-year-old Jabez Spann was last seen at a Labor Day barbecue in Sarasota back in 2017. The teen’s disappearance sparked years of searching and heartbreak for his family, and while his remains were eventually discovered in rural Manatee County nearly two years later, no one has ever been charged in connection with his death.
Sarasota Police say the case is far from closed. Investigators are actively appealing to the public for help, stating that any tip, no matter how small, will be thoroughly investigated. The family, led by Jabez’s grandmother, continues to push for answers. In an emotional plea, she said she just wants someone to come forward and that it’s nothing you ever get over. To help other families in similar pain, they founded the Jabez Spann Foundation, which offers support to those dealing with missing or murdered loved ones.
Living here on the Suncoast, this case hits close to home. It’s a reminder that justice doesn’t always come quickly, and that someone in our community might be holding the key to solving this. If you remember anything about that Labor Day weekend in 2017, or if you’ve heard something over the years, consider reaching out to the Sarasota Police Department. Could a single memory from nine years ago finally give this family the answers they deserve?
