A Clinton man who had been missing for a month was found dead on Saturday morning about half a mile from his home.
Andy Vinson West, 58, of High House Road, was reported missing by a family member on Jan. 22, and had last been seen the previous evening, Jan. 21, at around 7 p.m.
West’s vehicle and belongings were found at his residence, and investigators determined he may have left the area on foot or been picked up by another party.
An extensive search operation was immediately implemented, including searches on foot and in the air as well. West was not found until Saturday morning, a full month after he was last seen. All indications are that West has been deceased since he went missing, and no other individuals were involved, Captain Marcus Smith said.
“Inclement weather, including snow, ice, rain, and difficult terrain, significantly hindered search efforts; however, intermittent searches were conducted whenever conditions permitted,” he reported. “From the beginning, deputies and investigators have diligently followed up on all leads received.”
When asked why the search took a month, Smith said, “As stated in the press release, searches have been ongoing. There have been a lot of searches. Weather has been a factor, along with dense terrain.”
A final search was initiated on Saturday, with deputies assisted by Sampson County Emergency Management and numerous search-and-rescue teams from across the state, including Pender County SAR, Brunswick County SAR, North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation K-9 Unit, Wake County K-9, Shallotte Fire and Rescue, Central North Carolina SAR, Chocowinity SAR, and Suttontown EMS.
West was found deceased in a wooded area from what investigators determined was a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The Sheriff’s Office said foul play is not suspected at this time.
“The Sampson County Sheriff’s Office extends its deepest condolences to Mr. West’s family and loved ones during this difficult time,” Sheriff Jimmy Thornton said. “We are grateful to all assisting agencies and volunteers for their tireless efforts, professionalism, and support throughout this search.”
Calls to Capt. Smith for further comment were not immediately returned on Saturday afternoon.