Missing Hilton Head Island Vacationer Stanley Kotowski Found Dead; Coroner Rules Death a Suicide

Stanley Kotowski, a 62-year-old vacationer from Virginia, was reported missing from Hilton Head Island on May 28th. His body was found on June 1st, and the Beaufort County Sheriff's Office and Coroner's Office have ruled his death a suicide.

On May 28th, Stanley Kotowski, a 62-year-old vacationer from Centreville, Virginia, was reported missing from Hilton Head Island. Kotowski was last seen leaving his hotel on foot around 10:30 pm. An extensive search was launched, involving local law enforcement, the United States Coast Guard, and volunteers.

After several days of searching, Kotowski's body was discovered on June 1st in a wooded area near the Palmetto Dunes Resort. The Beaufort County Sheriff's Office and Coroner's Office immediately began an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

Missing Hilton Head Island Vacationer Stanley Kotowski Found Dead; Coroner Rules Death a Suicide

On June 2nd, the Beaufort County Coroner's Office released a statement confirming that Kotowski's death had been ruled a suicide. The statement revealed that Kotowski had been suffering from depression and had a history of suicidal thoughts.

"Our deepest condolences go out to Mr. Kotowski's family and friends during this difficult time," said Beaufort County Sheriff P.J. Tanner. "We hope that this closure will bring them some measure of peace."

The Beaufort County Sheriff's Office thanked all of the agencies and volunteers who participated in the search for Kotowski. "We are grateful for the outpouring of support from the community," said Sheriff Tanner.

Kotowski's family has established a GoFundMe page to help cover funeral expenses and other related costs. The page can be found at https://www.gofundme.com/f/funeral-expenses-for-stanley-kotowski.

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please seek help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).