COLLETTSVILLE, NC — The Caldwell County community is in mourning following the discovery of Casey Shaun Wilcox, 37, of Hudson, who was found deceased near Playmore Beach Road in the Collettsville area on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. Authorities from the Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office have initiated a death investigation after the body was discovered in a wooded area near water.

The Discovery and Response

The tragic discovery was made by a local resident who was surveying damage from a recent hurricane in the area. Upon spotting the body, the individual immediately contacted authorities. Emergency personnel from Collettsville Fire and Rescue responded quickly to the scene, working diligently to recover Wilcox’s body from the water.

The area where Wilcox was found is known for its dense woods and proximity to bodies of water, which has made the investigation particularly challenging for law enforcement. The Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that the cause of death has yet to be determined, and they are exploring all possibilities to uncover what led to his tragic passing.

Investigation Underway

As of now, authorities have not publicly confirmed whether foul play was involved, although they have not ruled it out. Sheriff Kevin H. Bean expressed his sympathy for the family of the deceased, saying, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Mr. Wilcox during this difficult time. We are committed to conducting a thorough investigation to determine what happened.”

The Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office is working alongside other local law enforcement agencies to gather information from witnesses, analyze any evidence, and examine Wilcox’s background to determine the circumstances surrounding his death. While the autopsy results are awaited, investigators are remaining vigilant in following up on any leads that could provide clarity.

A Quiet and Kind Soul

Those who knew Casey Wilcox have described him as a quiet and kind individual with a deep appreciation for nature and the outdoors. Friends and family remember him as someone who enjoyed the serenity of the area and often spent time hiking, exploring, and appreciating the natural beauty of Caldwell County.

The news of his death has hit the community hard, with many expressing their sorrow over the loss of someone who was well-liked and respected. In an emotional tribute, one friend stated, “Casey had a way of making everyone feel at ease. He was always willing to lend a hand when someone needed help, and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him.”

Community Impact

Hudson and Collettsville have been deeply affected by the unexpected loss of Wilcox, especially given the quiet nature of the area and the tight-knit community. People who knew him personally have begun to express their grief, not only on social media but also in person, as the community comes together to support one another during this difficult time.

The Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office has been urging anyone who may have information related to the circumstances of Wilcox’s death to come forward. Whether through direct observation, contact with Wilcox in the days leading up to his death, or any other potentially relevant detail, authorities are asking the public to assist in providing clarity. Tips can be submitted anonymously to local authorities or through Caldwell County Crime Stoppers.

Authorities Continue to Investigate

While the investigation into Wilcox’s death is still ongoing, the lack of immediate signs of foul play has led authorities to consider all possibilities. In rural communities like Collettsville, where access to certain areas is limited and conditions can be challenging, investigations like these can take time. Law enforcement officials have reassured the community that they are working diligently to gather all necessary information and that updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.

The Impact of Natural Disasters on Investigations

The timing of this incident, occurring shortly after a hurricane, has added a layer of complexity to the investigation. Emergency personnel and law enforcement have been working hard to address the widespread damage caused by the storm, and the additional challenges of recovering a body in a remote area have made the investigation all the more difficult. Despite these challenges, investigators remain committed to finding the truth and bringing closure to Wilcox’s family and friends.

While authorities have not confirmed the exact cause of death, the investigation highlights the importance of following up on all potential leads in order to determine the full circumstances surrounding this tragedy. The community of Caldwell County remains on alert as officials continue to search for answers.

Looking Ahead: Seeking Justice and Answers

As the investigation continues, the family of Casey Wilcox is likely grappling with a mix of grief and uncertainty. The impact of his loss is immeasurable, especially for his loved ones who are now left to process the trauma of his unexpected death. Local residents are urged to remain vigilant, stay informed, and support one another as the investigation unfolds.

Community Support and Next Steps

In the coming days, local officials are expected to provide more details about the investigation and any developments that may have occurred. In the meantime, the Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office is urging all community members to remain respectful of the grieving family while offering assistance in gathering any helpful information.

As the sheriff’s office continues to review evidence and await results from the autopsy, it is hoped that more clarity will emerge regarding the circumstances surrounding Casey Wilcox’s death. His family, friends, and the entire Caldwell County community are holding onto the hope that justice and answers will come soon.

Conclusion: A Tragic Loss

The loss of Casey Shaun Wilcox has left a profound impact on the Caldwell County community, particularly as it comes on the heels of a natural disaster and amidst the shock of an unexpected death. As authorities continue their investigation into his death, the community stands united in mourning and support for his family. The search for answers will continue, but for now, the community grieves the untimely loss of a man known for his kindness, generosity, and love of nature.

As more information is made available, the public will be kept informed, and law enforcement will continue to follow all leads in the hopes of providing clarity and closure to Wilcox’s family. Caldwell County is determined to ensure that the truth of what happened to Casey Wilcox comes to light, and that justice is served in his memory.