A horrifying case from North Carolina has taken a disturbing turn, as a man who was earlier charged with desecration of human remains is now formally charged with murdering his wife. Authorities say the man not only killed her but also dismembered her body and tried to hide her remains in containers.
Man Accused of Killing and Dismembering His Wife
Charles Antwine, 56, was arrested after police found the remains of his wife, Christy (also listed as Christie) Ward, in plastic containers inside a home in South Carolina. Antwine was first charged with desecrating human remains, but after an investigation, he has now been officially charged with murder.
Ward’s body parts were discovered on June 16, after both she and Antwine were reported missing earlier that month in Brunswick County, North Carolina.
Shocking Details Revealed by Police
According to an arrest warrant issued on July 2, Antwine is accused of intentionally cutting up Ward’s body, removing her bones and flesh, and placing the parts in containers in an effort to hide her death. The police say he clearly knew she didn’t die of natural causes and tried to conceal the crime.
Authorities said Antwine killed Ward sometime in June. After the gruesome discovery, he was taken into custody in Florence County, South Carolina, and later extradited to North Carolina, where he is now being held without bond at the Brunswick County Detention Center.
Missing Persons Case Turns into a Murder Investigation
The case started as a missing persons report filed by relatives. While searching for the couple, deputies in South Carolina spotted a submerged vehicle near a boat landing. The car, registered to Antwine, was empty, but it led officers to another address in Lake City, South Carolina.
When police arrived at the Lake City home, they noticed a bad smell coming from inside. After getting a search warrant, they found Antwine sitting on the couch and discovered taped plastic containers that held human remains. Police believe these were Ward’s body parts.
Investigation Still Ongoing
The full cause of death is still being investigated, and police say more charges may be added once the autopsy is complete. The case has shocked the local community and devastated Ward’s family.
Her son, Zachary Ward, spoke emotionally during a court hearing. “She’s been through so much,” he said. “She just lost her father. And now this? It’s just wrong.”
This tragic case has revealed a shocking act of violence within what was supposed to be a loving relationship. Charles Antwine is now facing murder charges, and the search for justice continues.
As investigators dig deeper into what really happened, the story of Christy Ward serves as a chilling reminder of how domestic violence can escalate into something truly horrifying. Her family now seeks answers — and justice.
