Body found in Wilson County tied to missing person's case

Andrea Blanford Image
Wednesday, June 8, 2016
Body found in Wilson County
The body was found near Highway 42

WILSON COUNTY, N.C. (WTVD) -- Wilson County sheriff's deputies are investigating after a body was found in a wooded area Wednesday. The discovery comes days after authorities responded to a burning car belonging to a missing Wilson County man.

Corey Bullock, Bailey's interim police chief, tells ABC11 James Graham Jr. of 6217 Deans St., was reported missing Tuesday. A family member reported last seeing Graham at his home.

Bullock said Graham's GM sedan was found burning in Wilson County Saturday. He wasn't sure whether the fire was set intentionally or due to a mechanical issue.

"From everyone in the community, he was a well-rounded, upstanding citizen," said Bullock. "He volunteered at churches. He was involved with the youth within the community, so it was kind of a shock when he came up missing."

Bullock said information regarding the burned out vehicle prompted the police department to close the missing persons case.

He said a body found in the woods off Highway 42 and Cisterna Road near the Buckhorn Reservoir Wednesday, was under investigation by the Wilson County Sheriff's Office.

Authorities have not released the identity of the body.

Report a Typo