News Summary
Lake City authorities are investigating the discovery of human remains identified as Christie Thomas Ward, who went missing alongside her husband. Her husband, Charles Edward Antwine Jr., has been charged with desecration of human remains following suspicious circumstances surrounding her death. The community is in shock, and local law enforcement seeks information to aid the investigation.
Lake City Investigates Discovery of Human Remains Linked to Missing Woman
Lake City authorities have confirmed that human remains uncovered recently have been identified as Christie Thomas Ward, a 50-year-old woman from Ocean Isle, North Carolina. The Florence County Coroner, Keith von Lutcken, established the cause of death as multiple blunt force trauma to the head. In connection with this case, Ward’s husband, Charles Edward Antwine Jr., aged 56, has been charged with desecration of human remains.
Relatives of the couple reported their disappearance around 4:15 p.m. from Brunswick County, North Carolina, prompting law enforcement to launch an investigation. Initial efforts to identify the remains were postponed pending the completion of autopsy results, which were announced the following Tuesday.
Details of the Investigation
The investigation began when a deputy from the Florence County Sheriff’s Office noticed an unattended vehicle near Riverside Cemetery Road close to a boat launch on the Lynches River. This vehicle was confirmed to be registered to Antwine, who resides on Stillwater Road in the Lake City area.
Upon arriving at Antwine’s residence, deputies detected an unusual odor emanating from the property and received no response when they knocked on the door. This prompted the execution of a search warrant, which revealed human remains stored in plastic containers that had been taped shut.
During the search, law enforcement officials discovered Antwine seated on a couch inside the home. The findings led authorities to conclude that the circumstances surrounding Ward’s death were suspicious, and they are exploring various angles as the investigation proceeds.
Community Reaction
The news of this tragic incident has shocked the local community. Residents of Ocean Isle, a close-knit area, are expressing their disbelief and sorrow as they process the implications of this case. Many are reaching out to support Ward’s family during this difficult time. Community leaders and officials have emphasized the importance of cooperating with law enforcement to ensure that justice is served.
Background Context
Christie Thomas Ward and Charles Edward Antwine Jr. were last seen together before relatives alerted the authorities about their disappearance. The couple’s relationship has come under scrutiny as investigators delve into the circumstances leading to Ward’s death and the actions of Antwine that followed. As more information comes to light, law enforcement is committed to uncovering the truth behind this tragic incident.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about domestic violence and the importance of reporting missing persons. Community resources and support systems are being reaffirmed to ensure that individuals and families can seek help when facing similar crises.
As the investigation continues, the Florence County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with additional information related to this case to come forward. Law enforcement remains committed to bringing clarity to this matter and ensuring that justice is served for Christie Thomas Ward.
This developing story reflects the tragic and often complex nature of domestic relationships, ultimately emphasizing the necessity for vigilance and support within communities.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Gruesome Discovery in Florence County Following Missing Persons Report
Serious Crime Unfolds in Missing Persons Case
Lake City Man Arrested in Missing Persons Case
Arrest Made After Human Remains Found in Lake City
Darlington Judge Denies Bond for Jefferey Booker Amid Tension
Florence Man Arrested on Serious Charges
Additional Resources
- News Nation Now: Florence County Human Remains Identified
- Wikipedia: Domestic Violence
- WBTW: Former Florence County Deputy Charged with Domestic Violence
- Google Search: Florence County Domestic Violence
- ABC News 4: Former Deputy Request Speedy Trial
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Crime
- WMBF News: Flock Cameras Help Florence Police
- Google News: Florence County Police Arrests
