Besalynn Mary James, 62, a member of the Lummi Nation, was last seen at her home on the Lummi Reservation in Whatcom County, Washington, the afternoon of January 20, 2025. Known as Bessy, she was a grandmother described as a Native American female with black hair, brown eyes, 5 feet 2 inches, about 180 pounds, with a scar on her right arm and a tattoo reading Bes on one arm.

She was reported missing to the Lummi Nation Police Department on January 25, 2025. Her boyfriend, Terry Bowman, told investigators she left their residence for a walk at 2:00 a.m. on January 21, 2025, but that sighting has not been corroborated. Besalynn left behind personal belongings and her three dogs; the jacket and white sneakers Bowman said she was wearing were later found in her trailer and the residence appeared unusually clean.

The Lummi Nation Police Department and the FBI are jointly investigating; Bowman has been named a person of interest and may be in Idaho, though no charges have been filed. The FBI is offering up to $10,000 for information leading to an arrest and conviction. If anyone knew Besalynn, her movements, or has information about Terry Bowman’s whereabouts, please come forward.