07/23/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
On Tuesday, July 21, 2026, deputies with the Cleburne County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a residence in the Trickum Valley area in reference to a possible missing person who had been renting an Airbnb property.
After the individual failed to check out as scheduled, the property owner entered for cleaning and discovered that the individual’s personal belongings were still inside. Concerned for the individual’s welfare, they contacted law enforcement.
Deputies and investigators immediately began an investigation to identify the individual, determine their whereabouts, and ensure their safety.
During the investigation, deputies and investigators located the individual’s vehicle parked behind the former Hardee’s restaurant on Almon Street in Heflin. Tragically, the individual, an adult male from South Carolina, was found deceased inside the vehicle from what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The identity of the deceased is not being released out of respect for the family. The investigation remains ongoing; however, there is no indication of foul play, and there is no threat to the public at this time.
Sheriff Jon Daniel and the members of the Cleburne County Sheriff’s Office extend their sincere condolences to the man’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.
Sheriff Jon Daniel would like to commend the Cleburne County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Division and patrol deputies for their outstanding work and quick response during this investigation.
“From the moment our deputies were notified that something wasn’t right, they immediately began working to identify and locate the individual,” said Sheriff Daniel. “Their diligence, teamwork, and investigative efforts led to locating the individual in a timely manner, allowing us to determine what had occurred and provide answers to the family. While this case ended tragically, I am proud of the professionalism and dedication our deputies and investigators displayed throughout the investigation.”
The Cleburne County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Cleburne County Coroner’s Office, the Heflin Police Department, and the Heflin Fire Department for their assistance during this investigation.
