A possible breakthrough has emerged in the case of Ricky James Watson, a 55-year-old man from Rutherford County, North Carolina, who has been missing since June 2025. On October 14, 2025, a report of a possible human bone discovery on Poors Ford Road led deputies to the 2700 block of the area. Upon investigation, the bone, believed to be a femur, appeared human, prompting a thorough search of the surrounding area the following day.
The bone has been sent to the North Carolina State Medical Examiner’s Office for forensic analysis to confirm its identity. Authorities have indicated that the remains may be linked to Watson’s disappearance, though official confirmation is pending.
Watson was last seen near 2818 Poors Ford Road on June 22, 2025. He was reported missing two days later, and an Endangered Alert was issued by the North Carolina Center for Missing Persons. Despite extensive search efforts, including ground units, K9 teams, and aerial support, no trace of Watson had been found until this recent development.
The Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office has been in direct contact with Watson’s family regarding the discovery and continues to pursue all leads as the case remains active. Authorities are urging anyone with information about Ricky James Watson’s disappearance or the recent discovery to come forward. The Sheriff’s Office can be reached at 828-286-2911, or anonymous tips may be submitted through Rutherford County CrimeStoppers at 828-286-TIPS or via the RCSO mobile app.
As the investigation continues, the community remains hopeful that this discovery will bring clarity to the circumstances surrounding Watson’s disappearance. Further updates will be provided once the Medical Examiner’s Office completes its evaluation and confirms the identity of the remains.