The body located in the woods near the intersection of Hudlow Road and Meadow Creek Drive has been identified as that of Mr. Steve Hawkins.
Mr. Hawkins was reported missing on 2-1-12 after having left on foot from Forest Lake Retirement Home.
The medical examiner has sent Mr. Hawkins’s body to Chapel Hill for an autopsy to determine cause of death.
Sheriff Chris Francis stated "It is sad to have found Mr. Hawkins in this state but I am glad the family can now have closure. I would again like to thank all of the fireman, K-9 searchers, NCSHP Helicopter, all the volunteers, and my deputies who have helped in the search for Mr. Hawkins"
Although foul play is not suspected, the investigation into Mr. Hawkins death is still ongoing.
