Body found in dense woods identified as missing man, South Carolina coroner says
The search for a missing South Carolina man came to an end when his body was found in dense woods near his home, Saluda County officials said.
James Breeden, an 81-year-old Saluda resident, was found dead on his farm property Friday, the Saluda County Sheriff’s Office said. The body was discovered in the woods near Joshua Road, according to the Saluda County Coroner’s Office.
Breeden had not spoken to his family since Jan. 10, the sheriff’s office said.
A search for Breeden began Jan. 29 following a welfare check at his home, according to the sheriff’s office.
In addition to deputies, the search included police dogs and aerial drones, the coroner’s office said Saturday.
“Unfortunately, the outcome was not as hoped,” the coroner’s office said.
No cause of death was released by the coroner’s office, which said an autopsy has been scheduled.
Both the coroner’s office and sheriff’s office are continuing to investigate Breeden’s death. Officials did not say if foul play was suspected.
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This story was originally published February 2, 2025 at 12:59 PM with the headline "Body found in dense woods identified as missing man, South Carolina coroner says."
