DENVER, CO — June 9, 2025 — The search for Jax Gratton, a beloved 34-year-old hairstylist from Denver who had been missing for nearly two months, may have ended in tragedy. Gratton’s mother, Cherilynne, told FOX31 that her daughter was found dead in an alley in Lakewood late Friday afternoon.
Gratton was last seen on April 15 around 10 p.m. near the 4200 block of East Iliff Avenue. She was officially reported missing on April 24, sparking a wave of concern and community-led search efforts that stretched across the metro area. Gratton operated her own salon suite on North Broadway and was known for her vibrant personality and welcoming spirit.
On Friday around 5 p.m., Lakewood Police were called to the 9600 block of West Colfax Avenue after someone discovered a body in an alley. The body was described by police as being in the “advanced stages of decomposition,” and while it has not yet been formally identified, family members believe it is Gratton.
“The coroner has not made positive ID on the body that was found yesterday. As soon as that happens, we can and will release more,” said a Lakewood Police Department spokesperson in a statement to FOX31. An autopsy is scheduled for Sunday, and the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office will handle identification and determine the cause of death.
Remembering Jax
Gratton’s friend, Tynk Insy, shared memories of Jax with FOX31 on Saturday, wearing a button bearing Gratton’s photo. Insy recalled the immediate warmth Gratton gave to everyone she met.
“Immediately, Jax was like, ‘Hi, how are you? Welcome, you’re welcome here, we love you.’ Like, we just met, but I love you, which was cool,” Insy said.
While the discovery was not the outcome anyone hoped for, Insy acknowledged the painful but necessary step toward closure. “At the end of the day, all we really wanted to do was bring her home, and bringing someone home can mean so many different things.”
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities have not released further details about the condition of the scene or whether foul play is suspected. Lakewood Police say they are continuing to investigate the case as a suspicious death until more information becomes available following the autopsy.
Gratton’s disappearance had drawn attention from across the Denver area, with friends, family, and local residents organizing search parties, distributing flyers, and maintaining hope for her safe return.
As the community awaits official confirmation and answers, many are beginning to grieve the woman they described as creative, kind, and full of light.
