Missing Shaw Air Force Base airman found dead
Body of 28-year-old was discovered 20 miles southeast of the base
The airman stationed at Shaw Air Force Base who was reported missing over the weekend has been found dead.
Senior Airman Jose Llanes, 28, served as a 20th Logistics Readiness Squadron aircraft parts store journeyman. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force on Nov. 6, 2012, and had been at Shaw since March 7, 2013, according to the 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office.
His body was found off Relief Road, which is west of Highway 379 and Interstate 95 about 20 miles southeast of the base. Sumter County Sheriff's Office Public Information Officer Adrienne Sarvis said he was found in his vehicle with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.
A sibling reported him missing on May 18, according to the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, after having last been seen the night before by his family on Lynam Road.
Sumter County Coroner Robbie Baker said he was found dead on May 21 about 11 a.m.
“This is a heartbreaking day for our squadron family and for everyone else who knew Jose,” said Lt. Col. Frank Fappiano, 20th LRS commander. “It makes us want to pull those around us a little bit closer. Jose was a beloved teammate and friend, and his presence in our unit will be sorely missed.
“Our sincerest condolences go to Jose’s family, friends and everyone else affect by this terrible tragedy.”
Coroner Baker said an autopsy has been scheduled for 11 a.m. Thursday at MUSC in Charleston to determine the official cause of death. Next of kin has been notified