Written by Wednesday, 22nd, July 2026
BROOKFORD, N.C. – Investigators with the Brookford Police Department and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) discovered human remains Monday evening while executing a search warrant as part of the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of Claude Wayne “Doc” Holsclaw.
According to the Brookford Police Department, the remains were located at approximately 8:04 p.m. on July 20, 2026, buried on a property located on 4th Street Place SW in Brookford.
The search was conducted as investigators continued to pursue leads in the disappearance of Holsclaw, whose case has remained under active investigation. On July 17, 2026, Brookford Police Chief Will Armstrong formally requested investigative assistance from the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation. Since that time, detectives from both agencies have worked collaboratively to conduct interviews, follow investigative leads, examine evidence, and advance the case.
Authorities emphasized that the discovery of the remains marks the beginning of an active death investigation. At this time, investigators have not positively identified the remains and cannot confirm whether they belong to Holsclaw or if they are otherwise connected to his disappearance.
The remains will be transported to the North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, where forensic specialists will conduct a comprehensive examination to establish the individual’s identity and determine both the cause and manner of death.
Investigators stated that, based on the circumstances surrounding the discovery, foul play is suspected. However, officials stressed that no criminal charges have been filed, and the investigation remains active and ongoing.
Due to the nature of the investigation, law enforcement officials are withholding additional details regarding the evidence recovered, the circumstances surrounding the discovery, and any individuals who may be connected to the case.
The Brookford Police Department continues to work alongside the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation as the investigation progresses. Officials have not announced a timeline for when additional information may be released.
Anyone with information that may assist investigators is encouraged to contact the Brookford Police Department or the North Carolin State Bureau of Investigation.
This is a developing story. Additional information will be published as it becomes available through official law enforcement sources.