Disturbing new developments have emerged in the disappearance of 26-year-old Ryan Godbey, a beloved drag performer from Ohio who vanished over two weeks ago.
Authorities now believe Godbey, also known by his stage name JJ, is dead. The case has shifted from a missing person investigation to a homicide, with 33-year-old Daniel Mattay arrested and charged in connection to his suspected murder.
“New Evidence Indicates He’s Gone”
Godbey was last seen leaving Darlin’s Crew, an LGBTQ+ nightclub in downtown Canton, Ohio, on June 19. His final known communication was a cryptic text sent at 12:27 a.m. on June 20 that read: “Danny is mad.” He never responded to messages after that, and his phone went straight to voicemail.
On July 4, Canton Police Chief John Gabbard announced that investigators had uncovered evidence indicating Godbey is no longer alive.
“While Mr. Godbey has not yet been located, the new evidence makes it clear that he is deceased and that Mr. Mattay is responsible,” Gabbard said, as reported by NBC affiliate WKYC.
Police have not disclosed the specific nature of this new evidence.
Signs of Foul Play
When Godbey failed to show up for a scheduled performance, friends and family grew concerned and reported him missing.
Police later searched his apartment and discovered disturbing signs of a struggle, including his epilepsy medication and three cats left behind—something his family says he would never do.
His driver’s license and credit card were also discovered discarded near a highway.
Suspect in Custody
Mattay—identified by those close to Godbey as someone he had previously dated—was initially arrested on June 24 for trespassing and drug possession alongside 38-year-old Amanda Williams in an abandoned building.
On July 3, police formally charged Mattay with:
- Murder
- Felonious assault
- Strangulation
- Domestic violence
Court records show Mattay has a violent criminal history, including a 2023 conviction for domestic violence.
Authorities have not confirmed whether Amanda Williams had any role in Godbey’s disappearance, but both individuals were questioned.
Timeline of Ryan Godbey’s Disappearance
- June 19: Last seen leaving Darlin’s Crew nightclub.
- June 20: Sends final text saying “Danny is mad.” Goes silent afterward.
- June 21–22: Misses performances; reported missing by friends and family.
- June 24: Police find Godbey’s license and card near a highway. Mattay and Williams arrested.
- July 2: Vigil held at Darlin’s Crew in Godbey’s honor.
- July 3: Mattay charged with murder and other crimes.
- July 4: Police confirm they believe Godbey is deceased.
Family’s Heartbreak
Following news of the murder charges, Godbey’s sister Paige McGeorge shared a message on Facebook.
“Rest in peace, Ry. I am so sorry. I love you. I promise to finish this and get you home. Until we meet again,” she wrote, thanking the community for their support.
Community in Mourning
Darlin’s Crew held a memorial vigil on July 2, remembering Godbey not just as a talented performer, but as a bright spirit deeply loved in the LGBTQ+ community.
The Canton Police Department has not released further details and did not immediately respond to requests for comment from The U.S. Sun.
A $5,000 reward is being offered for any information that leads to finding Godbey’s body. Authorities are urging anyone with knowledge of the case to come forward.
