THOMASVILLE, N.C. (WGHP) — A body found on the property of Ledford Middle School in Thomasville earlier this month has been identified, according to the Davidson County Sheriff’s Office.

The sheriff confirms that 18-year-old Tanner Michael Jones, of High Point, was found dead just after 6 a.m. on Feb. 1.

Jones is described as “a loyal, loving, and sweet kid who loved playing video games and riding dirt bikes,” according to his obituary. Jones was born in Greensboro, and he graduated from Southwest Guilford High School in 2022.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to the Guilford County Animal Shelter.

The sheriff’s office would not confirm where on the property Jones was found.

At around 3 p.m. that day, Davidson County Schools released the following statement:

“Upon arriving at work prior to 6:00 a.m., an employee discovered an individual who appeared to be deceased on school grounds.  School officials and law enforcement were immediately notified and an investigation rapidly began.  The campus had to be closed and the scene secured while law enforcement investigated and evaluated the security of the entire campus. 

Unfortunately, many of the buses were already in route when the determination to cancel school was made.  Buses were directed to Ledford High School and parents were notified to pick their children up there.  Ledford Middle School staff led this process.  Ledford Middle School and Ledford High School staff members should be applauded for handling such an uncertain situation with profound professionalism. 

Once detectives with the Davidson County Sheriff’s Office cleared the scene at Ledford Middle School and deemed the campus safe, staff was allowed to report to the building.  The Davidson County Sheriff’s Office reports that this is an isolated and random incident and there is no threat to the public as a result of this matter.  They are not seeking any suspects.

We are very appreciative of the job by officers with the Davidson County Sheriff’s Office.  The entire campus was canvassed to ensure a safe return for students and staff.  The investigation is ongoing and any additional information related to the deceased individual will be provided by law enforcement.  At this point there is no apparent connection between the individual and Ledford Middle School.  Thoughts and prayers are with the family who will be mourning a loss of a loved one.”  

Statement from DCS