FLORENCE, SC – A man who was reported missing alongside his wife in North Carolina has been charged with desecration of human remains after authorities say his wife’s body parts were discovered in containers at a South Carolina residence.

Charles Antwine, 56, was located Sunday at a home in Lake City, South Carolina, where deputies found him sitting inside amid several taped plastic containers that authorities say contained the remains of his wife, Christy Ward. The disturbing discovery followed a multi-state investigation after the couple was reported missing by relatives in Brunswick County, North Carolina.

The search began last week when both Antwine and Ward were reported missing, prompting law enforcement in both states to coordinate efforts. Authorities in Florence County, South Carolina, said the break in the case came Saturday when a deputy on patrol at a local boat landing noticed the roof of a mostly submerged vehicle in the water. The vehicle was later pulled from the water and determined to be registered to Antwine.

That discovery prompted investigators to check an address connected to Antwine in Lake City. Deputies said they detected an unusual odor around the residence and, after obtaining a warrant, entered the home and found Antwine on the couch with no apparent attempt to leave. Inside, investigators found several plastic containers, tightly sealed with tape, which they say held dismembered human remains later identified as belonging to Christy Ward.

Authorities have charged Antwine with desecration of human remains but stressed that additional charges are possible as they await autopsy results from the Florence County coroner. At this point, Antwine is considered a suspect in Ward’s disappearance but not yet formally charged in her death.

Ward’s family grappled with the loss during a court appearance Monday, where her son, Zachary Ward, addressed the accused and expressed anguish over his mother’s death. He described Christy Ward as someone who had recently suffered the death of her father and was trying to overcome personal hardships.

Online records show Antwine was still in custody at the Florence County Detention Center as of Tuesday, pending a circuit court bond hearing.

Law enforcement officials said their investigation is ongoing and asked anyone with information related to the case to come forward. They did not comment on a motive or whether additional suspects were being considered.

A decision on Antwine’s bond will be made by a circuit court judge, according to authorities.

Autopsy findings are expected to clarify the cause and manner of Christy Ward’s death and may bring further charges, officials said.