Body of 52-Year-Old Bobby Dean Whitaker Found Along Route 1 in Brunswick County, Virginia; Investigation Launched to Determine Circumstances Surrounding Death
BRUNSWICK COUNTY, Va. – A body discovered along Route 1 in Brunswick County has been identified as 52-year-old Bobby Dean Whitaker, a resident of Durham, North Carolina. Whitaker’s body was found Tuesday morning, just two feet off the roadway near the Mecklenburg County line, with no visible signs of an attempt to conceal it.
The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office, which has launched a full investigation into the circumstances of Whitaker’s death, has confirmed the identity of the deceased through the assistance of the North Carolina authorities. According to investigators, there were no immediate signs of trauma or injury visible at the scene, but the situation remains highly suspicious, with officials believing that Whitaker may have been transported to the location by another person.
Sheriff’s deputies responded to the area just after 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday after a passerby reported the discovery of the body. Officers immediately cordoned off the area, preserving the scene for further investigation. The body has since been taken to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.
“Our office is actively working to piece together the events leading up to Mr. Whitaker’s death,” said Sheriff Robert Wilson. “We are exploring all possibilities and working closely with our counterparts in North Carolina to gather any relevant information that may assist in solving this case.”
At this time, no foul play has been officially confirmed, but authorities have not ruled it out. Investigators are examining surveillance footage from nearby businesses, questioning individuals who may have been in the area, and reviewing any records that might indicate Whitaker’s whereabouts in the days leading up to his death.
A family member, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, expressed their shock and disbelief over the loss. “We are just heartbroken. We loved Bobby dearly, and we are doing everything we can to help the authorities understand what happened to him.”
Brunswick County officials are also asking for the public’s assistance. If anyone has information regarding Bobby Whitaker’s whereabouts or any details that may help the investigation, they are urged to contact the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office at (434) 848-3133 or Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000.
As the investigation continues, authorities are focused on determining whether Whitaker’s death was the result of a targeted crime or a tragic accident. Sheriff Wilson emphasized that the case remains a priority for his department and that they are committed to seeking justice for Whitaker and his family.
“We won’t stop until we get answers,” Sheriff Wilson added.