Tragic Loss: Massachusetts Man Found Deceased After Disappearing from Hilton Head Vacation

Missing Massachusetts man, Stanley Kotowski, has been found deceased beneath a Sea Pines residence after wandering off from his family's vacation rental on August 16.

South Carolina authorities have released the cause of death for Stanley Kotowski, a Massachusetts man who vanished from his family's vacation in Hilton Head on August 16. Beaufort County Coroner David Ott ruled on Tuesday that Kotowski's death was the result of asphyxiation by hanging, determining the manner of death as suicide.

Ring doorbell footage released over the weekend showed Kotowski walking out of his family's South Sea Pines Drive rental barefoot on the same day he disappeared. The video depicted Kotowski appearing confused, stopping and looking around in the middle of the street before continuing on.

Tragic Loss: Massachusetts Man Found Deceased After Disappearing from Hilton Head Vacation

Stanley Kotowski's wife, Jackie Kotowski, shared with local news outlet WJCL that her husband had been experiencing severe insomnia for about a month prior to his disappearance. His anxiety had been escalating, leading to paranoia and delusions. A BCSO report revealed that Jackie told deputies that Stanley believed Sea Pines was a "set up" and that people were conspiring against him.

Kotowski's remains were discovered on Monday beneath a house in Sea Pines. Beaufort County Sheriff's Office Lieutenant Eric Calendine explained that a Sea Pine security officer smelled a foul odor and noticed flies in the area. Authorities searched around the building and eventually found a hatch leading to the crawl space beneath the house, where Kotowski's body was located.

Tragic Loss: Massachusetts Man Found Deceased After Disappearing from Hilton Head Vacation

The discovery of Kotowski's body brought a heavy sense of grief to the community. Beaufort County authorities expressed gratitude for the support and assistance provided during the search efforts. Out-of-state property owners even contacted Hilton Head officials to allow them to search their residences for signs of Kotowski.

Jackie Kotowski shared her heartbreak in a Facebook post, stating, "It is with deep sorrow that I share the heartbreaking news that Stan has been found. Sadly, he is no longer with us. Our hearts are heavy with grief as we begin to process this unimaginable loss."

Tragic Loss: Massachusetts Man Found Deceased After Disappearing from Hilton Head Vacation

The incident has highlighted the importance of mental health awareness and the need for support for individuals struggling with these issues. Authorities urged anyone experiencing mental health challenges to seek professional help.

The tragic loss of Stanley Kotowski has shocked and saddened the community. While the cause of death has been determined, the full circumstances surrounding his disappearance and subsequent passing remain unknown. His family and loved ones are left to grapple with their grief and the unanswered questions that linger in the aftermath of this devastating event.

Tragic Loss: Massachusetts Man Found Deceased After Disappearing from Hilton Head Vacation