News Summary
Charles Edward Antwine Jr., a 56-year-old man from Lake City, SC, has been arrested in connection with the disappearance of Christy Thomas Ward. Authorities discovered a submerged vehicle linked to Antwine, leading to a search of his home where human remains were found. Antwine has been charged with desecration of human remains, with additional charges expected as investigations continue. The case raises significant concerns about missing persons in the region and the collaboration of law enforcement agencies.
Lake City, SC – A 56-year-old man, Charles Edward Antwine Jr., was arrested in connection with a missing persons investigation related to the case of Christy Thomas Ward in Brunswick County, North Carolina. The arrest came after relatives reported Ward and Antwine missing from their residence last week.
The investigation into the missing persons report was initiated by the Florence County Sheriff’s Office, leading to a significant discovery over the weekend. On Saturday, a patrol deputy from the Florence County Sheriff’s Office conducted a routine check at the Lynches River boat landing located near Riverside Cemetery. During the inspection, the deputy noted the roof of a submerged vehicle, prompting an immediate response from multiple agencies, including firefighters, emergency medical services, and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.
Upon retrieval, it was confirmed that the vehicle bore a South Carolina license plate registered to Charles Edward Antwine, who resides near Lake City. This revelation prompted deputies to conduct a property check at Antwine’s home, where they encountered an “unusual smell” emanating from the premises. After receiving no response during their visit, authorities obtained a search warrant to enter the residence.
Upon entering the home, law enforcement found Antwine seated on the couch. Further investigation revealed human remains, concealed in plastic containers that were sealed with tape. Consequently, Antwine was taken into custody and charged with desecration of human remains. An autopsy has been ordered to determine the identity of the remains, which officials believe likely belong to Christy Ward.
As the investigation unfolds, additional charges against Antwine are anticipated. During a bond hearing, a judge opted to defer decisions regarding bond to the circuit court. Currently, Antwine is being held at the Florence County Detention Center, where he has been denied bond. His first appearance in court is scheduled for August 19, 2025.
The implications of this case extend beyond the arrest, as agencies continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the disappearances of both Antwine and Ward. The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office has been contacted for more information to clarify the status of the missing woman and any possible connections to the investigation within Florence County.
This alarming case highlights ongoing concerns regarding missing persons in the region and the importance of inter-agency cooperation in such critical investigations. Further updates are expected as officials continue to piece together the events leading up to this tragic situation.
As the investigation progresses, authorities urge anyone with information related to Christy Ward’s disappearance or the context surrounding her case to come forward and assist in the ongoing efforts.
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Additional Resources
- KCRG News
- Wikipedia: Missing Person
- WBTW News
- Google Search: Missing Persons Investigation
- WPDE News
- Google Scholar: Missing Persons Cases
- WHNT News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Missing Persons
- SC Now News
- Google News: Florence County Missing Woman
