Shannon Ryan Convicted of Murder in Cavett Case
A Florida jury found Shannon Ryan guilty of second-degree murder following the 2020 disappearance of Leila Cavett.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Financial Crime
Shannon Ryan has been convicted of second-degree murder in connection to the disappearance of Leila Cavett, who went missing in Florida in July 2020. The verdict was delivered by a jury on Thursday afternoon.
Why it matters
The conviction brings a degree of legal resolution to a high-profile case that began when Cavett's 2-year-old son was discovered abandoned in a parking lot. Despite the verdict, the body of the victim has never been recovered.
A jury delivered a guilty verdict for second-degree murder on September 24, 2026. Shannon Ryan, who was charged in May 2021, is currently awaiting a sentencing hearing.
The players
Shannon Ryan
She is the defendant who has been convicted of second-degree murder for the death of Leila Cavett.
Leila Cavett
She is the victim whose disappearance in July 2020 led to a multi-year investigation in Florida.
The details
Shannon Ryan faces a potential life sentence after the jury determined her guilt in the death of Leila Cavett. The case drew national attention after investigators found Cavett's 2-year-old child unattended in a parking lot in July 2020.
Timeline
Leila Cavett went missing in Florida during July 2020.
Shannon Ryan was charged with murder in May 2021.
A jury convicted Shannon Ryan on September 24, 2026.
Shannon Ryan is scheduled to be sentenced on October 23, 2026.
Legal Context
This conviction marks the legal conclusion to the investigation sparked by the 2020 disappearance of Leila Cavett. The case serves as a notable example of homicide prosecutions proceeding to trial even in the absence of a recovered body.
The resolution of this case provides closure for a long-standing investigation that raised significant safety concerns across Florida. Residents can expect the judicial process to conclude with the upcoming sentencing hearing next month.
The takeaway
This case highlights how forensic evidence and investigative work can lead to convictions even when key physical evidence like a body is never found. The upcoming sentencing will finalize a years-long legal effort following the tragedy.
What happens next
Shannon Ryan is scheduled to appear in court for her sentencing hearing on October 23, 2026.
Further reading
For additional context on legal proceedings in the state, visit the Financial Crime section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WVTM 13.
