Local Radar

Remains found are those of Marion Key
web posted December 8, 2005

MERRIWETHER – Edgefield County Coroner Thurmond Burnett positively identified the remains found yesterday off Sweetwater Road as those of 74 year old Marion Key who has been missing for almost five months. The preliminary cause of death is listed as natural causes. The final report will come after the full autopsy report is completed in the next two weeks.

Investigators were still working the case as a crime until evidence leads them to other conclusions Cpl. Robbie Harter said after the discovery on Tuesday. Chief Investigator Randy Doran was in Newberry today for the initial autopsy. Family members said personal items belonging to Mr. Key were found with the remains.

The funeral arrangements are being planned at this writing and more information will be provided as it becomes available. Stephen Posey Funeral Home in North Augusta is handling the arrangements. Melba Key, Mr. Key’s wife, said the family was dealing with mixed emotions right now as they are sad with the news but relieved that they are able to have the funeral. “We still have a lot of questions,” she said.
                                  BELOW: Deputy Shirley Key  checks crime scene log
The jurisdiction has moved completely to the Edgefield County Sheriff’s Office with the discovery and North Augusta Public Safety will be a supporting agency rather than the lead. The Key family said the Sheriff’s Office has performed beyond their expectations and they feel the Sheriff and the investigators will find out what really happened.

Mr. Burnett releasing that the cause of death was natural causes was “upsetting” Mrs. Key said adding that they believe there was someone involved, “there is no way I will ever believe he walked that far,” she said.

BELOW: Deputy Mike Lipscomb talks to Deputy Al Moore  
 

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