by Charleston, SC – A heartbreaking update has emerged in the search for 19-year-old College of Charleston student Owen Tillman Kenney, who vanished on Halloween. Authorities announced that the student died by suicide, and multiple agencies are now searching for his body in the Cooper River.
Disappearance on Halloween
Kenney, a New Jersey native, was last seen around 2 a.m. on Oct. 31 near King Street and Burns Lane, only minutes from his home, according to the Charleston Police Department. His disappearance prompted an extensive community-wide search that continued for nearly a week.
His family and friends had shared flyers and social media posts, pleading for information. Police said Kenney was wearing a black hooded jacket, light-colored pants, and black Nike sneakers with white soles when he was last seen in surveillance footage. Earlier that night, he had been dressed in a green-and-white Boston Celtics jersey for Halloween celebrations.
Video Evidence Reveals Tragic Outcome
Investigators revealed on Thursday that video evidence showed Kenney walking onto the Ravenel Bridge pedestrian walkway, roughly three miles from where he was last seen. According to police, the footage indicated that Kenney took his own life after reaching the bridge.
“Our priority has always been and will remain Owen’s family. This is a real case involving a real family living through unimaginable pain, and they deserve compassion, privacy, and support from all of us,” said Charleston Police Chief Chito Walker in a statement.
Search and Recovery Efforts
The Charleston Police Department’s Underwater Recovery Team, Harbor Patrol, and Unmanned Aerial System Team are currently conducting searches in and around the Cooper River for Kenney’s body. Additional support has come from federal, state, and local agencies, including specialized teams from New Jersey.
Authorities said Kenney’s phone last pinged near the bridge, and his roommate had attempted to track his location but was unable to connect after the phone battery died around the time he went missing.
Remembering Owen Kenney
Kenney was from Tinton Falls, New Jersey, and a graduate of Red Bank Catholic High School. Friends described him as friendly, hardworking, and full of life. His family noted that he had distinct tattoos on his right forearm, left shoulder, left shin, and knee.
The College of Charleston community has expressed condolences and pledged support to students affected by the tragedy. The university reminded students that mental health resources remain available for anyone struggling in the wake of Kenney’s death.
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A Message on Mental Health
Kenney’s death is the latest reminder of the mental health challenges faced by young adults, particularly college students. Police and family members have urged the public to treat the case with sensitivity and to reach out for help when needed.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or emotional distress, help is available. Call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for free and confidential support, available 24/7.
Continuing the Search
As the search for Kenney’s body continues, authorities have emphasized their commitment to bringing closure to the family. “Our teams remain in the area, and we are doing everything possible to recover Owen and return him to his loved ones,” officials said.
For updates on this developing story and related community news, visit Mike and Jon Podcast.
