Search Efforts Intensify for Missing Jacksonville Woman Janay Wiley as Community Seeks Answers

Search Continues for Missing Jacksonville Woman Janay Wiley

Jacksonville, Fla. — The case of Janay Wiley, who disappeared on June 30, 2020, continues to weigh heavily on the heart of her family and the Jacksonville community. As part of a series highlighting missing persons cases, those closest to Janay are still seeking answers about her strange and sudden disappearance.

Who Was Janay Wiley?

Janay was the youngest of 11 siblings, described as friendly and creative. According to her father, George Wiley, she had a magnetic personality and was a true people person. However, he acknowledges that some of the individuals she surrounded herself with were not the best influences. “She got caught up in the world,” he reflected.

What Happened to Her?

On June 29, 2020, Janay was last seen celebrating her sister’s birthday. George Wiley recalls that it never crossed his mind it would be their last meeting. The following day, Janay contacted George from an unknown number, telling him she was on Wright Avenue, near St. Augustine Road. During that brief conversation, she mentioned needing to hang up because “the lady wants her phone,” indicating she was with someone she respected.

After not hearing from her for a week, George filed a missing persons report with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, marking the beginning of a prolonged and desperate search for answers. Detective Jonetta Buxton took on the case and quickly mobilized to search areas where Janay was known to frequent, particularly the Moncrief and Myrtle Avenues. “We flooded the area. Myself, patrol, and the missing persons unit,” Buxton stated. Various investigative methods were employed, including utilizing a command bus and interviewing acquaintances of Janay.

Where Did She Disappear?

Janay was last seen in the Jacksonville area, specifically around Wright Avenue. After extensive searches in the local neighborhoods she frequented, law enforcement struggled to gather substantial leads. Detective Buxton revealed, “I did not hear any negatives about her,” framing the case as particularly difficult due to the lack of information pointing to foul play or conflict.

Why is the Case Important?

The mystery of Janay’s disappearance not only affects her immediate family, but the entire Jacksonville community. George Wiley underscored the pain of not knowing, stating, “Every day is a struggle. I just want her back home.” Tragically, the family lost Janay’s mother last year, amplifying their grief.

Detective Buxton urged the public to come forward with information. “Someone knows where Janay is,” she said. She emphasized the importance of stepping forward, regardless of any perceived reluctance or fear. “No matter what a person does, you do not have the right to cause harm to anyone. It is time for her to come home, and it is time to bring closure to the family.”

How Can You Help?

If you have any information on Janay Wiley’s disappearance, you are encouraged to contact the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office at 904-630-0500 or CrimeStoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS (8477). Your details could make a difference in resolving this unsettling case and providing the Wiley family with the answers they desperately seek.

As the fourth anniversary of her disappearance approaches, Janay’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the many families in waiting, hoping for closure and forever longing for their loved ones to return home.