A shocking incident in Highlands, North Carolina, has led to the arrest of a South Carolina man after a missing person report turned into a murder investigation. What began as concern over a missing worker quickly escalated when police discovered evidence at a construction site. Authorities have now taken a suspect into custody, and the case is moving forward under serious charges.
Missing person report leads to investigation
The case began on April 29, when the Highlands Police Department responded to a report of a missing person. The call came from a residence under construction located at 429 Hardscrabble Ridge Road in Highlands.
According to officials, the report raised serious concern because blood was found at the site. It was also noted that one of the workers present at the location was missing, which increased suspicion and urgency.
Police discover victim at the scene
When officers arrived at the location, they found three adult men outside the property. During their investigation, one individual was discovered dead at the scene.
The victim was identified as Jose Antonia Pena-Diaz. Authorities later confirmed that the victim and the accused are brothers, adding a tragic and personal dimension to the case.
Suspect arrested and charged with murder
Police arrested 41-year-old Rene Pena Diaz, a resident of Greenville, South Carolina, in connection with the incident. After conducting an initial investigation, he was formally charged with murder.
Due to the seriousness of the charge, Diaz is currently being held without bond. He has been placed in custody at the Jackson County Detention Center as the legal process begins.
State agencies assist in investigation
Given the nature of the case, additional agencies were brought in to support the investigation. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation and the 43rd Prosecutorial District Attorney’s Office assisted local police in gathering evidence and building the case.
Their involvement helped ensure that the investigation was handled thoroughly and professionally.
Case to be handled in Jackson County
Officials have confirmed that the case will be prosecuted in Jackson County. Although the incident occurred within the corporate limits of Highlands, the specific location of the property places it under Jackson County jurisdiction.
This means all court proceedings and legal actions will take place within the county’s court system.
Ongoing investigation
Authorities have not yet shared full details about what led to the incident. Information about the motive or events leading up to the death has not been released.
The investigation is still ongoing, and officials may provide more updates as new details emerge.
