In September 2021, what began as an apparent “free car” turned into a full-blown death investigation when two men discovered a hatchback located on the outskirts of Byram, Mississippi.
According to Mississippi news outlet WLBT, after getting into the car, the two men drove about 30 miles before they opened the trunk and found 34-year-old Anthony Joel McCrillis dead inside. The vehicle, registered to McCrillis, had a key in the ignition, and what they claimed was a “free car” sign on the windshield. Investigators later said McCrillis had been dead for several days.
Early reports said McCrillis was naked, but his mother later said he wore a T-shirt and a cross necklace. In the early stages of the investigation, police announced that there were no visible signs of trauma, no gunshot wounds, stabbings, or other obvious external injuries.
Contrary to that, a woman claiming on social media to be McCrillis’ sister said he had bruises and blood on his right shoulder. Surveillance footage showed McCrillis was alive as late as 9 p.m. on the Friday preceding the discovery.
The truth about the “free car” sign
HEAR FROM THE FAMILY
— Gary Burton JR (@GaryBurton_JR) September 24, 2021The mother and 2 brothers of 34 year old Anthony Joel McCrillis, who was found dead in his car Sunday morning in Copiah County say everyone that knew him, loved him. A GoFundMe has been made to help with funeral arrangements. @WJTV https://t.co/hxWEiqU2cw https://t.co/M9WlNrM4mk pic.twitter.com/27anZ26mXZ
As the investigation progressed, it was revealed that the “free car” sign claim may have been fabricated. Investigators with the Byram Police Department said the two individuals who initially found and drove off with the vehicle later admitted there was never a sign: They had invented that detail as a cover to avoid auto-theft charges.
Subsequently, three arrests were made related to the case: Joshua Hankins, charged with auto theft, tampering with evidence, and possession of a controlled substance with a firearm; Jordan Thomsen, charged with auto theft and evidence tampering; and Kelly King, who was not involved in taking the car, for possession of a controlled substance with a firearm and hindering prosecution after the fact.
The McCrillis case is unsolved
“My brother Anthony Joel McCrillis died 2021. Last seen on Ring camera at home 9PM, body found in Crystal Springs next night after car stolen from Byram by 2 guilty of theft, 1 indicted for tampering awaiting trial. Blood, bruises on right shoulder & https://t.co/PGb0iv7QZO
— Angie McCrillis (@AMccrillis2323) March 6, 2025
Despite arrests and extensive investigative activity, no definitive public update has been released regarding the cause or manner of McCrillis’ death. Authorities have maintained the possibility of foul play, but also possibly suicide. Autopsy results remain pending in public reporting, and authorities continue to treat the vehicle and the circumstances as a potential crime scene.
McCrillis’ family described him as a “kind and gentle soul” who had recently completed a rehabilitation program in Arkansas and returned to Mississippi to be near family. His obituary lists his birth date as November 17, 1986, and states that he passed away on September 17, 2021.
