MARION, S.C. (AP) — A Massachusetts man who traveled to South Carolina after seeking work was found dead inside a trash can behind a home, and authorities are investigating his death as a homicide, police said.
The body of David Hutchinson, 32, of Oakham, Massachusetts, was discovered Jan. 29 behind a residence on Pearl Street in Marion, according to a news release from the Marion Police Department. His remains were in a state of decomposition inside the trash receptacle, and the coroner’s office confirmed the case is being treated as a suspected homicide.
Hutchinson had traveled south in late December after communicating online with a woman who told him there were good-paying job opportunities in the area, family members said. He told loved ones he planned to return home in early January but never checked in, prompting concerns and a missing persons report.
Police on Thursday arrested Jaida Braddy, 41, charging her with accessory after the fact in connection with Hutchinson’s death. She was being held in the Marion County Detention Center under a $15,000 bond. Authorities say there could be up to a dozen people connected to the investigation because the property where the trash can was found is known for frequent visitors.
The exact cause of death has not been released. Investigators are continuing to interview witnesses and follow leads, police said.
Hutchinson’s family described him in a social media post as having “one of the biggest personalities” and being deeply loved by friends and relatives. They said he was not “just a drifter” but a son, brother, cousin and uncle.
A GoFundMe page established by his sister seeks to help with funeral expenses.
Anyone with information about the case is asked to contact the Marion Police Department.
