James Eric Bess

Above: James circa, 1984


Vital Statistics at Time of Disappearance

Missing Since: October 4, 1984

Missing From: Radcliff, Hardin County, Kentucky

Classification: Endangered Runaway

Date Of Birth: December 18, 1969

Age: 14 years old

Height and Weight: 5’6″ and 110 pounds

Distinguishing Characteristics: African American Male, Black hair, Gray eyes, James has 3 scars in total; one on the right side of his waist, another scar just above his right hand, and a scar above his right elbow

Clothing/Jewelry Description: A blue denim jacket, a sport shirt, blue jeans, and a pair of gray sneakers

NCMEC Number: 1229638


Details of Disappearance

James was last seen with a friend, Chipley Sanders, in Radcliff, Kentucky on October 4th 1984. They were staying in a boys’ group home in the 1300 block of 13th street at the time. The two boys ran away from the home and have never been seen again. Him and Chipley remain missing and their case unsolved. Their current whereabouts are unknown.


Investigating Agency

If you have any information concerning this case, please contact:

Ashland Police Department 606-327-2020


Source Information

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children

The Charley Project

The Doe Network

NamUs