With profound sadness, family, friends, and members of the Chico community are mourning the tragic loss of Anthony Jones, 36, whose life came to an end after he was found deceased inside a storm drain in Oroville, California. Anthony Jones was identified by the Butte County Sheriff’s Office as the man discovered on Monday, July 6, 2026, near the 200 block of Mira Loma Drive. His unexpected passing has left those who knew him grieving and searching for answers as investigators continue to look into the circumstances surrounding his death.
According to authorities, the Oroville Police Department responded at approximately 4:00 p.m. after receiving a report of a deceased individual located inside a storm drain. When officers arrived, they found Jones positioned headfirst inside a privately owned storm drain. Due to the challenging location and the need for a safe recovery, Butte County CAL FIRE personnel were called to assist emergency responders at the scene.
The discovery was first made by a group of juveniles who were playing in the nearby neighborhood. The children noticed what appeared to be a person’s feet extending from the storm drain. After realizing the individual was not moving, they immediately reached out to their parents and sought assistance from employees at a nearby office building, who then contacted the Oroville Police Department.
Investigators conducted a death investigation to determine how Jones came to be inside the storm drain. Authorities collected evidence from the scene and reviewed available information, including preliminary GPS location data, which indicated that Jones had been moving through the surrounding area the day before he was found.
At this time, investigators have reported that there is no indication of foul play or any suspicious circumstances connected to Jones’ death. The investigation remains active as officials continue working to determine the events that led to his passing.
Beyond the investigation, a community is left remembering a life that mattered. Anthony Jones’ family and friends are facing the unimaginable pain of losing someone they cared for and loved. During this difficult time, they are surrounded by the memories, moments, and connections that will forever remain a part of his legacy.
As loved ones grieve, the thoughts and condolences of the community are extended to everyone affected by this tragic loss. Anthony Jones will be remembered, and his memory will continue to live on through those who knew him. May he rest in peace, and may his family find comfort and strength in the days ahead.