News Summary
Charles Edward Antwine Jr., a 42-year-old man from Lake City, has been arrested for desecrating human remains found at his home. This discovery followed the investigation of two missing persons, prompting deputies to search his property. Human remains were found in sealed containers, and an autopsy has been ordered. Antwine faces severe legal consequences as the investigation continues, igniting concerns within the local community.
Lake City Man Arrested for Desecration of Human Remains Following Gruesome Discovery
Lake City, S.C. – A 42-year-old man, Charles Edward Antwine Jr., has been arrested and charged with desecration of human remains after deputies made a horrifying discovery at his home. The situation unfolded following the report of missing persons, Antwine and Christy Thomas Ward, from Brunswick County, North Carolina.
On June 14, law enforcement officials were alerted when a submerged vehicle was found at the Lynches River boat landing in Riverside Cemetery. This vehicle was registered to Antwine and was mostly submerged in water. Following up on the investigation, deputies conducted a property check at Antwine’s residence on Stillwater Road in Lake City.
During this check, deputies detected a strong odor emanating from the home. After obtaining a search warrant, they entered the property and found Antwine sitting on a couch. Further investigation of the home revealed unsettling evidence; human remains were discovered inside three plastic containers that were taped shut. As of now, the remains have not yet been identified, and an autopsy has been ordered by the coroner, Keith Von Lutcken. This autopsy will take place at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston.
Antwine has been charged with a felony in South Carolina, which carries severe consequences, including a potential fine of up to $5,000 and imprisonment for a period of 1 to 10 years. He has since been booked at the Florence County Detention Center and is currently awaiting a bond hearing. In a development from his court appearance, it was noted that Antwine appeared in a wheelchair due to a broken leg.
Significantly impacting the ongoing case, Ward’s son attended the bond hearing and made an emotional plea for justice regarding his mother. Law enforcement officials, including Sheriff TJ Joye, have characterized the situation as reminiscent of a “horror movie,” confirming that the remains are likely those of Ward, pending confirmation from autopsy results. Investigators anticipate additional charges as the investigation progresses.
This shocking incident has sparked concern and a sense of unease among the community in Lake City as details continue to emerge. Charles Edward Antwine Jr.’s first appearance in court is scheduled for August 19, 2025, as the investigation remains active.
Authorities urge anyone with additional information regarding this case or the individuals involved to contact law enforcement. The discoveries made during this investigation highlight the importance of community vigilance and reporting any suspicious activity.
The legal process will unfold in the coming months as authorities work to uncover the full details surrounding this unsettling case.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Gruesome Discovery Leads to Murder Investigation in Lake City
Additional Resources
- WMBF News: Deputies Discover Human Remains
- Wikipedia: Human Remains
- Post and Courier: Lake City Human Remains
- Google Search: Lake City Human Remains
- WBTW: North Carolina Missing Persons Report
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Missing Person
- KSL TV: Human Remains Found in West Valley
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.
