Body of Missing Massachusetts Man, Stanley Kotowski, Found in Hilton Head: Details of the Tragic Discovery
South Carolina authorities have confirmed the discovery of the body of Stanley Kotowski, a Massachusetts man who went missing during a family vacation on Hilton Head Island. The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office reported that Kotowski’s body was found “beneath a residence” in the Sea Pines area on Monday, August 26, 2024, following a week-long search.
Timeline of Events
August 16, 2024:
- Stanley Kotowski, 60, was last seen leaving his family’s rental home on South Sea Pines Drive, Hilton Head Island. Ring doorbell footage captured him exiting the house barefoot and appearing disoriented.
- His family reported him missing later that day after he failed to return.
- In the video, Kotowski is seen walking into the street, pausing to look around as if confused, and then continuing on. This was the last time he was seen alive.
August 26, 2024:
- At approximately 11:30 a.m., the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office was alerted to suspicious activity at a residence in the Sea Pines area.
- Upon investigation, authorities discovered Kotowski’s body underneath the home around 3:30 p.m.
- The Sheriff’s Office indicated that they believe the body is that of Stanley Kotowski, though a formal identification and autopsy are scheduled for Tuesday, August 27, 2024.
Background Information
- Mental and Physical Health:
- Kotowski had been struggling with severe insomnia and escalating anxiety in the month leading up to his disappearance, according to a Facebook post by his wife, Jackie Kotowski.
- His family noted that during the week of August 19, Kotowski exhibited signs of paranoia, believing that people, including authorities, were pursuing him.
- Search Efforts:
- The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office conducted extensive land and water searches, supported by Kotowski’s family, who actively sought the public’s help in locating him.
- Despite these efforts, Kotowski was not located until his body was found under the residence in Sea Pines.
Ongoing Investigation
Autopsy:
- The Beaufort County coroner is scheduled to conduct an autopsy on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, to determine the cause of death.
- Public Appeal:
- Authorities continue to seek information related to Kotowski’s disappearance. Anyone with knowledge of his movements or who may have seen him in the days following his disappearance is urged to contact Beaufort County dispatch at 843-524-2777.
Community and Family Response
- Family Statement:
- Kotowski’s family expressed their gratitude for the support they received from the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office and the community during the search. His wife, Jackie, shared that the Sheriff’s Office had been “doing everything in their power” to locate Kotowski.
- Public Impact:
- The tragic discovery has resonated with both the local community and those following the case, as it underscores the vulnerability of individuals struggling with mental health issues.
This unfortunate incident highlights the importance of community vigilance and support, especially when dealing with cases involving mental health challenges. The investigation into Kotowski’s death remains ongoing, as authorities work to uncover the circumstances leading up to this tragic event.