The body of Stanley Kotowski, a 60-year-old Massachusetts man who had gone missing while vacationing with his family, was found under a home in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, over a week after he was last seen. Authorities confirmed that Kotowski, who had been experiencing a mental health crisis, died by suicide.
Kotowski disappeared on the morning of August 16th, after leaving his family’s vacation rental in Sea Pines. His wife, Jackie Kotowski, reported him missing two hours later, expressing deep concern for his safety. According to the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, Kotowski had been struggling with severe anxiety and insomnia, leading up to a mental health crisis that contributed to his disappearance. Before leaving, he told his wife, “Promise me you will go on without me,” an ominous statement that heightened concerns about his well-being.
Authorities launched an extensive search, involving deputies and local residents, who scoured the area for any sign of Kotowski. His disappearance was particularly alarming due to his mental state and the fact that he left without personal belongings, including his phone and wallet.
The search ended tragically on Monday when a Sea Pines security officer noticed a foul odor and flies near a home in the area. The officer alerted the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, and upon investigation, Kotowski’s body was discovered in a crawl space about 600 feet from where he was last seen. The crawl space, described by Sheriff P.J. Tanner as “unusual” with a “very unique” entry point, had initially gone unnoticed during the search. Coroner David Ott confirmed that Kotowski had died by asphyxiation by hanging, and it is believed he passed away on the day he went missing.
The discovery left the search team and community deeply saddened. “Just wish the outcome was different,” Sheriff Tanner said during a press briefing. Despite the extensive efforts to locate Kotowski, the complexity of the situation and the unique hiding spot contributed to the delay in finding him.
Kotowski’s mental health had been deteriorating rapidly in the days leading up to his disappearance. His wife shared that he had become increasingly paranoid, convinced that people in Sea Pines were “out to get him.” He had even sought medical attention for his anxiety but continued to struggle.
Authorities expressed gratitude to the community for their help during the search, acknowledging the collective effort to find Kotowski. However, they have chosen not to disclose the exact location of the recovery out of respect for the local residents and vacationers.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 at 988, offering free and confidential emotional support