Jade Colvin is Missing

The 48 Hours episode 'Jade Colvin is Missing' chronicles the years-long investigation into the disappearance of Jade Colvin, a 14-year-old girl who ran away from a youth shelter in June 2016. Over the next eight years, a dedicated team of law enforcement officials—including Detective Cheryl Nablo, Deputy U.S. Marshal Justin Wallace, Detective Chris Webker, and Special Agent John Turbitt—worked tirelessly to uncover the truth behind her vanishing. Despite a lack of physical evidence, investigators pieced together a compelling case using digital footprints, social media messages, and a critical breakthrough: a cell phone found on the property of James Bachmerski, a man with whom Jade’s mother had a relationship. Photos and deleted messages on the phone revealed Jade’s last known whereabouts and interactions, while Bachmerski’s inconsistent statements and suspicious behavior—especially his claim that he cleaned the house and replaced furniture—pointed to a cover-up. After a lengthy trial, Bachmerski was convicted of second-degree murder in 2025, though Jade’s body has never been found. The case remains open, with investigators committed to bringing her home and ensuring justice is fully served. The episode highlights the emotional toll on Jade’s family and friends, who never stopped searching, posting birthday messages and pleas for her return. It also underscores the challenges of missing persons cases, especially involving vulnerable youth with complex family histories. Despite the conviction, the absence of a body and the lingering questions about what truly happened to Jade leave a profound sense of unresolved grief. The story is ultimately one of perseverance, hope, and the enduring belief that every missing person deserves to be found—even years after they disappeared.