Body of McKinleyville Man Found on Mad River Beach, Identified
Humboldt County deputies discovered a deceased adult male at Mad River Beach on November 8, and the coroner has identified the remains as 33 year old Corey Shannon Johnson of McKinleyville. The finding resolves a missing person report from November 1, and an autopsy was scheduled to determine cause and manner of death, matters that concern neighbors, beachgoers, and the wider community.
Humboldt County Sheriff deputies responded to Mad River Beach in Arcata on November 8 at approximately 12 55 p.m. after a report that a human body had washed ashore. Deputies located the deceased adult male and noted no visible signs of physical trauma at the scene. The Humboldt County Coroner responded and took over the investigation.
The Coroner’s Office has positively identified the remains as those of 33 year old Corey Shannon Johnson of McKinleyville. Shannon Johnson had been reported missing on November 1. Next of kin have been notified, and an autopsy was scheduled for later that day to establish the cause and manner of death.
Local authorities are continuing their inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the discovery. The Sheriff’s Office has conveyed condolences to Shannon Johnson’s family as officials work with the coroner to complete the autopsy and advance the investigation. No further details about the cause of death have been released while forensic and investigative procedures are underway.
For residents of Humboldt County the discovery underscores the intersecting concerns of coastal safety, missing persons, and the emotional toll on small communities. Mad River Beach is a frequented stretch of coastline used by walkers, anglers, and families. The recovery of human remains on a local shoreline can raise alarm and grief across neighborhoods, particularly in McKinleyville where the identified person lived and where friends and family now mourn.
Authorities encourage anyone with information that could assist the investigation to contact the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office. Tips can be shared by calling the main line at (707) 445 7251 or the Crime Tip line at (707) 268 2539. Investigators ask community members to come forward with any observations that might relate to Shannon Johnson’s disappearance or the circumstances leading to the discovery at Mad River Beach.
As the coroner’s findings are completed and law enforcement continues its work, local agencies and community groups may provide updates on safety and support services for those affected. The investigation remains active and officials have asked for public cooperation as they seek to clarify the events that led to this loss.
