Mr. Whitworth was reported missing from Gastonia, NC, on December 2, 2009. The CMPD is investigating the case as a homicide and is working closely with the Gastonia Police Department.
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Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Unit are still working to identify the remains that were located off Strollaway Road in the Steele Creek Division. Due to decomposition, race has not been determined, however, there were some distinct clothing items that appear to belong to a male.
Detectives were able to recover a pair of Wrangler jeans, a black woven belt, and a pair of men’s sized Puritan brand underwear. Along with a white, Fruit of the Loom tank top located inside of a No Boundaries black long sleeved shirt. The shirt has a photograph of a Lion’s Head on the front. Inside the pockets of the jeans, a Seneca brand cigarette pack, with a blue lighter and a uniquely colored pocket knife displaying the yellow, red and silver. The pocket knife also had a cross emblem in red along with a photograph of a motorcycle on both sides.
Detectives are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the victim based on the detailed clothing description provided. Anyone with information is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600 or contact Det. T Brandon at 704-432-TIPS.