After six long days of searching, the mystery surrounding 19-year-old college student Owen Kenney has come to a heartbreaking end. Authorities confirmed that the young man, who had been reported missing nearly a week ago, has been found.
Owen, a student at Charleston College, was last seen leaving his dorm room on a quiet Friday evening. Friends say he appeared “calm but distracted” before walking off campus. When he failed to return or answer his phone, his family and classmates grew increasingly worried.
Local police launched an intensive search, deploying drones, search dogs, and divers to scan the surrounding rivers and wooded areas. Flyers with Owen’s photo were distributed across the city, and hundreds of volunteers joined in to help locate him.
On the sixth day of the search, a team of divers made the discovery near a riverbank just a few miles from campus. The news sent shockwaves through the community. “We were all hoping for a miracle,” one student said tearfully. “It just doesn’t feel real.”
Authorities have not yet released an official cause of d*ath, but early reports suggest that foul play is not suspected at this time. The investigation is ongoing, with detectives working to piece together Owen’s final hours. His family, who had been holding on to hope throughout the search, are now asking for privacy as they grieve their devastating loss.
Charleston Police Chief stated, “This is not the outcome we hoped for, but we’re grateful to have found Owen and to be able to give his family some closure. Our hearts go out to them during this unimaginably difficult time.”
Vigils have already begun forming on campus, where friends are leaving candles, flowers, and handwritten notes near the main courtyard. Professors described Owen as bright, kind, and deeply loved by those around him. “He had a big heart and a quiet determination,” said one of his mentors. “It’s a loss that will be felt by the entire school.”
Mental health advocates are using this tragedy to remind students about the importance of reaching out when they feel isolated or overwhelmed. “College life can be stressful, and no one should go through hard moments alone,” said a campus counselor. “There’s always help available — and always hope.”
The community has come together online as well, with the hashtag #RememberOwenKenney spreading messages of love, support, and awareness. One post read, “Owen, your light will never fade. You’ll always be remembered for your kindness.”
As the investigation continues, officials are urging the public to focus on supporting the family and respecting their space during this painful time.
💔 Owen’s story serves as a somber reminder of how precious and fragile life is — and how deeply every life matters. His memory will live on in the hearts of everyone who knew him.