An 82-year-old South Carolina man's mutilated remains were discovered inside a 55-gallon barrel at his Hartsville home last week, authorities said, leading to the arrest of his son on charges related to allegedly moving and concealing the body.
Background
Judson Hawkins Jr. died several months before Darlington County officials discovered his remains at his residence on March 18, according to local news reports. The elderly man's death went unnoticed for months before authorities were alerted, reportedly triggering a missing persons investigation that eventually led investigators to the gruesome discovery.
The case has left the small Hartsville community reeling as details emerged about the alleged actions taken by the victim's own son. Neighbors described the elderly man as a quiet resident who lived on the property with his son, according to social media comments cited by local reporters.
The Investigation
Darlington County sheriff's deputies responded to the home on March 18 after concerns were raised about Hawkins Jr.'s welfare. Upon entering the residence, investigators discovered that the elderly man's body had been dismembered and placed inside a 55-gallon barrel, according to WPDE.
Authorities soon learned that Judson Hawkins III had allegedly provided false information to investigators during the missing persons inquiry, potentially delaying the discovery of his father's remains. An arrest warrant alleges that Hawkins III illegally moved his father's body from the home to another location on the property before officials arrived.
Hawkins Jr.'s cause of death and manner of death remain unknown as of Friday. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is continuing its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the 82-year-old's death.
Key Takeaways
- Judson Hawkins Jr., 82, was found dead at his Hartsville, South Carolina home on March 18
- His son, Judson Hawkins III, has been charged with destruction or removal of human remains and obstructing justice
- The elder Hawkins allegedly died several months before his body was discovered
- The victim was found dismembered inside a 55-gallon barrel on the property
- Hawkins III is accused of moving his father's body and providing false information to investigators
- The cause and manner of death remain under investigation
What's Next
Judson Hawkins III made his first court appearance on Friday, where a judge denied him bond. The defendant is scheduled to return to court in early June for further proceedings.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding Judson Hawkins Jr.'s death. Authorities have not indicated whether additional charges are expected.