For Immediate Release
March 11, 2025 – Mobile, AL- Alabama Cold Case Advocacy, Mobile County Sheriff’s Office & Mobile County Commission Unite to Spotlight 25-year-old Missing Person Case
Updated March 20, 2025
Alabama Cold Case Advocacy (ACCA) is proud to announce that, with the support of the Mobile County Commission and the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office, a year-long billboard campaign will soon launch to bring renewed attention to the disappearance of Stephen Pearson, a Grand Bay resident who vanished under suspicious circumstances in December 2000. This campaign aims to keep Stephen Pearson’s case in the public eye and encourage anyone with information to come forward.
The Mobile County Commission has approved funding for a billboard that will feature images of Stephen Pearson as he appeared at the time of his disappearance, alongside an age-progressed rendering illustrating what he might look like today. This visual – crafted by the talented Lt. Craig Shook (ALEA), a certified composite artist and certified forensic artist – aims to assist the community in recognizing Pearson after 25 years.
The billboard, sponsored by the Mobile County Commission with a $3,750 agreement, will be strategically placed in the Grand Bay area, where Pearson resided before his disappearance. ACCA deeply appreciates the Commission’s support and the leadership of Commissioner Randall Dueitt in securing funding. Commissioner Dueitt expressed hope that the billboard will generate new leads in the case, stating, “We’re excited,” he said. “We hope that it’s many more in the future. We have several that I’m aware of from my time at the Sheriff’s Office, unsolved cases in Mobile County. … We’re hoping that somebody will drive by there, see this picture and maybe say, ‘Hey, I remember this guy. I saw him this day,’ or whatever it may bring.” (fox10tv.com)
Stephen Pearson was last seen around Christmas in 2000, shortly after he inadvertently signed for a package containing marijuana intended for a neighbor. He reportedly threatened to report the incident to authorities, after which he disappeared. Despite extensive investigations, no arrests have been made, and Pearson’s whereabouts remain unknown. (fox10tv.com)
At ACCA, we believe this initiative is a critical step forward not just in Pearson’s case, but in the broader effort to generate momentum in other cold cases across the state. We are grateful for Sheriff Paul Burch’s willingness to collaborate and share resources in the pursuit of justice.
The billboard will be located on an MH Outdoor Media platform in Grand Bay, AL, and is scheduled to run for a full year, ensuring sustained visibility for the case. The billboard is slated for installation on March 21, 2025 near 9964 Grand Bay Wilmer Road, Grand Bay, AL.
We extend a special thank you to Lt. Craig Shook, a certified composite artist and certified forensic artist at ALEA, for his invaluable contribution in providing the age-progression image of Stephen Pearson. His expertise offers a renewed perspective on what Pearson might look like today, which could be crucial in generating new leads.
As part of our continued efforts, ACCA has launched a dedicated phone line, 251-501-COLD (2653), for receiving case submissions and information via call or text. For those calling with information specifically related to Stephen Pearson’s case, we ask that you dial Ext. 2 from the menu.
Sheriff Paul Burch emphasized the department’s commitment to solving this case, stating that they will continue to work diligently to bring closure to the Pearson family. (wallstreetpublication.com)
Anyone with information regarding Stephen Pearson’s disappearance is urged to contact the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office (251-574-8633) or Alabama Cold Case Advocacy (251-501-2653, Ext. 2). Tips can also be submitted anonymously through MCSO’s website or ACCA’s website.
About Alabama Cold Case Advocacy
Alabama Cold Case Advocacy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families of missing and murdered individuals in Alabama. Through advocacy, public awareness campaigns, and collaboration with law enforcement, ACCA strives to bring attention and resolution to cold cases across the state.
Media Contact:
Alabama Cold Case Advocacy
Phone: 251-501-COLD (2653)
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