COLLETTSVILLE, N.C. — The Caldwell County community is grappling with sorrow and unanswered questions following the tragic discovery of a body in the Collettsville area on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. The Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office, under the leadership of Sheriff Kevin H. Bean, has launched a death investigation after the remains of 37-year-old Casey Shaun Wilcox, of Hudson, were found near water in a wooded area off Playmore Beach Road.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, a local resident assessing hurricane damage in the area stumbled upon the deceased and immediately notified authorities. Emergency personnel from Collettsville Fire and Rescue responded promptly, working diligently to safely recover Wilcox’s body from the water.
As of now, the cause of death remains undetermined, and investigators are actively working to piece together the events leading up to Wilcox’s death. No signs of foul play have been publicly confirmed or ruled out, and officials have withheld further information pending the results of an autopsy and continued investigative efforts.
In a statement, Sheriff Bean extended his sympathies:
“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 somber discovery has left many in the Hudson and Collettsville communities grieving, especially those who knew Wilcox personally. Friends described him as quiet and kind, with a deep appreciation for the outdoors.
The Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office urges anyone with relevant information to come forward as they work to bring clarity and closure to Wilcox’s loved ones.
The investigation remains active, and further updates will be shared as details emerge.