News Summary
Authorities in Florence County made a shocking discovery following a missing persons report from Brunswick County, North Carolina. The investigation centered around Christy Thomas Ward and Charles Edward Antwine, who were reported missing. After locating Antwine’s submerged vehicle, investigators found human remains in his home, leading to his arrest for the desecration of human remains. As the investigation unfolds, the community is left in shock and awaiting answers.
Florence County, South Carolina: Gruesome Discovery Following Missing Persons Report
A missing persons report from Brunswick County, North Carolina, has led to a shocking discovery and the arrest of a Florence County man, as authorities uncover troubling evidence connected to the case. The investigation began after relatives reported Christy Thomas Ward and Charles Edward Antwine missing from their home last week.
On Saturday, June 14, a sheriff’s deputy from Florence County spotted the roof of a vehicle mostly submerged at the Lynches River boat landing. Upon further investigation, authorities confirmed the unoccupied vehicle had a South Carolina license plate registered to Charles Antwine.
Following the discovery of the vehicle, investigators learned that Antwine has a home address near Lake City, South Carolina. When deputies checked his property, they noticed an unusual smell emanating from the residence and received no response after knocking on the door.
On June 15, authorities secured a search warrant and entered Antwine’s home. Inside, they found him sitting on a couch. More disturbing was the discovery of human remains inside three plastic containers that were taped shut. While the remains are believed to belong to Christy Ward, confirmation is pending an autopsy to be conducted at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston.
Charles Antwine, aged 56, was arrested at the scene and charged with desecration of human remains. He is currently being held at the Florence County Detention Center and is awaiting a bond hearing. The situation remains under investigation, with the possibility of additional charges against Antwine as more evidence is uncovered.
During a bond hearing, a judge denied Antwine bail and deferred the decision to a Circuit Court. His first court appearance is scheduled for August 19, 2025.
The Florence County Sheriff’s Office has classified the case as particularly horrific, with Sheriff TJ Joye stating it resembles “something like out of a horror movie.” The investigation continues as authorities gather more information, seeking to understand the full circumstances surrounding the deaths and the actions of Charles Antwine.
The community is left in shock as details unfold regarding this disturbing case. Family members of the missing individuals are undoubtedly in anguish, awaiting further updates from law enforcement and the coroner’s office. As the investigation progresses, both the residents of Florence County and Brunswick County remain on alert, reflecting on the tragic events that have transpired.
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Additional Resources
- WPDE News
- Google Search: Christy Thomas Ward
- WBTW News
- Wikipedia: Missing Person
- The State
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Missing Person
- WMBF News
- Google News: Florence County deputies
- KWQC News
- Google Scholar: Missing Persons Investigation
- WWAY TV3
- Google Search: Charles Edward Antwine
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
