Human remains that of missing Duncan woman

Human remains located in Spartanburg County woods have been identified as a missing Duncan woman.

According to Spartanburg County Coroner Rusty Clevenger, the remains were discovered Tuesday and are that of 42-year-old Evelyn Audrey Shelton who went missing on May 20, 2011. She reportedly was last seen leaving a Spartanburg home on Dean Street that evening and her vehicle was found abandoned at William’s Bar and Grill in Spartanburg a few days later. Shelton was a nursing student at Spartanburg Community College.

The Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office reported Tuesday that they had been dispatched on Monday evening to the intersection of Bennett Dairy Road and Old Converse Road to meet with a woman who said she knew where a human skull could be found. The area was secured and a search was conducted early on Tuesday. The search led deputies and dog teams into a wooded area off of Enola Station Road where they found the skull. Other remains were also found.

Clevenger said the skull was sent to a forensic dental specialist in Charleston to make the identification. The office is now investigating the cause and manner of death. Clevenger said that process could take a long time.

In a press release, Clevenger asked for prayers for the family.

“The family was called to my office last night and told of the news and emotions were understandably mixed,” he said. “They are relieved to have any answer. This is not the result they hoped for. I ask that you keep this prayerful and loving family in your prayers in the days and weeks ahead.”

kmaple@greercitizen.com | 877-2076