Remains found in the Santa Fe National Forest have been positively identified as those of professional wrestler and actor Shad Gaspard, bringing closure to a nearly two-year-old missing person case. Gaspard, 39, was last seen in May 2020 after being caught in a strong rip current while swimming with his son at Venice Beach, California. His son was rescued, but Gaspard disappeared beneath the waves, last seen directing rescuers to save his child first. The cause and manner of death have not been determined by New Mexico authorities, though no foul play is suspected.
The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the identification on Wednesday, following the discovery of the remains on December 17, 2023. “On December 17, 2023, at approximately 3:24 p.m., the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office was notified of possible human remains located in the Santa Fe National Forest,” the Sheriff’s Office stated. The remains were subsequently recovered and sent to the Office of the Medical Investigator (OMI) for positive identification.
The identification marks the end of a long and painful wait for Gaspard’s family, friends, and fans, who have mourned his loss and celebrated his heroic final act. Gaspard, known for his imposing physique and charismatic personality, was a prominent figure in the WWE as one-half of the tag team Cryme Tyme, alongside JTG (Jayson Paul).
The Discovery and Identification Process
The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office received the initial report of possible human remains in the Santa Fe National Forest on the afternoon of December 17, 2023. Deputies were dispatched to the location, where they confirmed the presence of skeletal remains. Due to the condition of the remains and the circumstances of the discovery, the Sheriff’s Office immediately initiated a thorough investigation, including coordination with the Office of the Medical Investigator.
The OMI conducted a forensic examination of the remains to determine the identity and potential cause of death. While the Sheriff’s Office has not released specific details regarding the identification process, such methods often include dental records, DNA analysis, and comparisons with existing medical records. The positive identification of the remains as those of Shad Gaspard was a critical step in bringing closure to the case.
“The case has been confirmed as Shad Gaspard,” the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office stated, officially ending the search that began in May 2020. The Sheriff’s Office added that the investigation is ongoing, but preliminary findings do not suggest any signs of foul play. The OMI is expected to release a final report detailing the cause and manner of death pending further investigation and analysis.
Background: Shad Gaspard’s Disappearance
Shad Gaspard’s disappearance occurred on May 17, 2020, at Venice Beach in Los Angeles, California. Gaspard was swimming with his then-10-year-old son, Aryeh, when they were caught in a powerful rip current. Lifeguards immediately responded to the scene and began rescue efforts.
According to reports from witnesses and first responders, Gaspard selflessly directed lifeguards to save his son first. Aryeh was successfully rescued, but Gaspard was pulled under the water by the strong current and disappeared. The U.S. Coast Guard and Los Angeles County lifeguards conducted an extensive search for Gaspard, utilizing helicopters, boats, and dive teams. However, after several days, the search was suspended due to the low probability of survival.
The wrestling community and Gaspard’s fans were deeply affected by the news of his disappearance. Many expressed their grief and admiration for his heroic act of saving his son’s life. Gaspard was widely regarded as a devoted father and a positive influence in the wrestling world.
On May 20, 2020, Gaspard’s body washed ashore near Venice Beach. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner confirmed his identity, and his death was ruled as an accidental drowning. A memorial service was held in his honor, attended by family, friends, and colleagues from the wrestling industry.
Theories and Speculation Regarding the Santa Fe Discovery
The discovery of Shad Gaspard’s remains in the Santa Fe National Forest, far from where he disappeared in California, has raised questions and sparked speculation. How his remains ended up so far from Venice Beach remains a mystery. The distance between Venice Beach, California, and the Santa Fe National Forest in New Mexico is approximately 750 miles. It’s highly improbable, if not impossible, for a body to naturally travel that distance, especially considering the currents and geographical obstacles.
Several theories have been proposed, though none have been confirmed by law enforcement officials. One theory suggests that the remains may have been transported to New Mexico after Gaspard’s death. This could involve deliberate relocation, although no evidence currently supports this possibility. Another theory involves misidentification, however that was dispelled by official confirmation by the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office. The condition of the remains and the length of time since Gaspard’s disappearance have made it difficult to determine the exact circumstances surrounding their presence in the Santa Fe National Forest.
Law enforcement agencies are continuing to investigate all possibilities, and they are working to gather additional information that may shed light on this aspect of the case. The Office of the Medical Investigator is conducting forensic analyses to determine if there is any evidence of trauma or other factors that could explain how the remains ended up in the Santa Fe National Forest.
Shad Gaspard’s Life and Career
Shad Gaspard was born on January 13, 1981, in Brooklyn, New York. He had a diverse athletic background, including amateur wrestling, boxing, and mixed martial arts. Before pursuing a career in professional wrestling, Gaspard worked as a bodyguard for several celebrities.
In 2003, Gaspard entered the world of professional wrestling by participating in the reality television show “WWE Tough Enough 2.” Although he didn’t win the competition, he impressed WWE officials and was offered a developmental contract. He spent several years training in WWE’s developmental territories, honing his skills and developing his persona.
In 2006, Gaspard made his debut on WWE’s main roster as one-half of the tag team Cryme Tyme, alongside JTG. Cryme Tyme quickly gained popularity for their unique characters, their energetic in-ring performances, and their memorable catchphrases. They were known for their comedic segments and their ability to connect with the audience. Cryme Tyme feuded with several other tag teams in WWE, including The Spirit Squad, The World’s Greatest Tag Team, and MNM.
Cryme Tyme disbanded in 2007, but Gaspard and JTG reunited in 2008. They continued to compete as a tag team until 2010, when Gaspard was released from WWE. After his release, Gaspard pursued various acting and entrepreneurial ventures. He appeared in several television shows and movies, including “Think Like a Man Too” and “Get Hard.” He also co-created a graphic novel called “Assassin & Son” with his writing partner Marc Copani.
Gaspard was known for his dedication to his family and his positive attitude. He was a role model for many aspiring wrestlers and a beloved figure in the wrestling community. His untimely death was a great loss to his family, friends, and fans.
Reactions and Tributes
The news of the identification of Shad Gaspard’s remains has been met with a wave of emotions from the wrestling community and his fans. Many have taken to social media to express their grief, offer condolences to his family, and share memories of Gaspard’s life and career.
WWE issued a statement expressing their condolences to Gaspard’s family. “WWE is saddened to learn of the passing of Shad Gaspard,” the statement read. “Gaspard was a beloved member of the WWE family, and his heroic actions to save his son’s life will forever be remembered. WWE extends its condolences to Gaspard’s family, friends, and fans.”
Numerous wrestlers and other personalities from the wrestling world have also shared their thoughts and memories of Gaspard. JTG, Gaspard’s former tag team partner, posted a heartfelt message on social media, expressing his grief and gratitude for their friendship.
“My heart is broken,” JTG wrote. “I will never forget our time together. You were my brother, my friend, and my tag team partner. I will miss you dearly.”
Fans have also been sharing their memories of Gaspard and expressing their admiration for his heroism. Many have praised him for his selflessness and his dedication to his family.
“Shad Gaspard was a true hero,” one fan wrote. “He gave his life to save his son. He will never be forgotten.”
The Impact on Gaspard’s Family
The identification of Shad Gaspard’s remains brings a sense of closure to his family, who have been waiting for answers for nearly two years. However, it also reopens the wounds of their loss and reminds them of the pain of his absence.
Gaspard is survived by his wife, Siliana Gaspard, and his son, Aryeh. Siliana has been a strong advocate for her husband since his disappearance, and she has worked tirelessly to keep his memory alive. She has also been a source of strength and inspiration for their son, Aryeh.
The Gaspard family has requested privacy as they continue to grieve and process this difficult news. They have expressed their gratitude for the support they have received from the wrestling community and their fans.
Legal and Investigative Aspects
The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the discovery of Shad Gaspard’s remains. While preliminary findings do not suggest foul play, the investigation is ongoing to ensure that all possibilities are explored.
The Office of the Medical Investigator is conducting forensic analyses to determine the cause and manner of death. This will involve a thorough examination of the remains, as well as a review of Gaspard’s medical records and other relevant information.
Law enforcement agencies are also working to determine how Gaspard’s remains ended up in the Santa Fe National Forest. This will involve interviews with potential witnesses, as well as a review of any available evidence.
The investigation is expected to take several weeks or months to complete. Once the investigation is concluded, the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office will release a final report detailing their findings.
The Santa Fe National Forest
The Santa Fe National Forest, where Gaspard’s remains were found, spans over 1.6 million acres in northern New Mexico. Characterized by rugged mountains, dense forests, and diverse ecosystems, it is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, including hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting. The forest’s varied terrain and remote areas can pose challenges for search and rescue operations. The location where the remains were discovered has not been disclosed, but authorities have emphasized the difficulty in accessing certain parts of the forest, contributing to the length of time it took for the discovery to be made.
The Significance of Closure
The identification of Shad Gaspard’s remains is significant for several reasons. First and foremost, it brings closure to his family, who have been waiting for answers for nearly two years. They can now lay him to rest and begin the process of healing.
Second, it brings closure to the wrestling community and Gaspard’s fans, who have been mourning his loss and celebrating his life. They can now reflect on his legacy and remember him for his contributions to the wrestling world.
Finally, it brings closure to the legal and investigative aspects of the case. Law enforcement agencies can now complete their investigation and provide a final report on the circumstances surrounding Gaspard’s death.
The discovery of Shad Gaspard’s remains in the Santa Fe National Forest marks the end of a long and difficult chapter. While the circumstances surrounding his death remain a mystery, the identification of his remains brings a sense of closure to his family, friends, and fans. Shad Gaspard will be remembered as a hero, a devoted father, and a beloved member of the wrestling community.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How was Shad Gaspard identified after so long?
The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the identification through forensic examination conducted by the Office of the Medical Investigator (OMI). While specific details haven’t been released, these methods often include dental records, DNA analysis, and comparisons with existing medical records to positively identify remains, especially when they are skeletal.
2. What was Shad Gaspard doing when he disappeared in 2020?
In May 2020, Shad Gaspard was swimming with his 10-year-old son at Venice Beach, California, when they were caught in a strong rip current. Gaspard instructed lifeguards to save his son first, and while his son was rescued, Gaspard disappeared beneath the waves.
3. Why were Shad Gaspard’s remains found in New Mexico, so far from where he disappeared?
The reason for the discovery of Shad Gaspard’s remains in the Santa Fe National Forest, New Mexico, remains a mystery and is currently under investigation. It’s approximately 750 miles away from Venice Beach, California where he was last seen. Several theories have been proposed, including the possibility of deliberate relocation, but none have been confirmed by law enforcement officials.
4. What is the current status of the investigation into Shad Gaspard’s death?
The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that the investigation is ongoing. While preliminary findings do not suggest foul play, the Office of the Medical Investigator is conducting further forensic analyses to determine the cause and manner of death.
5. How can I support Shad Gaspard’s family?
Support can be provided through expressions of condolences, sharing positive memories of Gaspard, and respecting the family’s request for privacy during this difficult time. While there are no specific, publicly endorsed fundraising efforts mentioned in the immediate aftermath of this news, keeping his memory alive and supporting mental health initiatives in his name would be appropriate actions. You can also look for official statements or initiatives from his family for directed support.
