McCurtain County officials confirmed that skeletal remains discovered in a vehicle retrieved from Pine Creek Lake have been identified as two longtime residents who vanished in 2022. The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) responded to a call on October 15 after the Oklahoma Highway Patrol recovered the vehicle containing the remains.
Identification of the missing Woodmans
On Thursday, the McCurtain County medical examiner’s office announced that the remains belong to Terry Woodman, 64, and Timothy Woodman, 65. Both men were reported missing by the Wright City Police Department in September 2022 after they failed to return home following a routine outing.
Investigation continues
While the identification provides closure for the families of the Woodmans, the cause of death remains undetermined. The medical examiner’s office is conducting a thorough forensic analysis, including toxicology and osteological examinations, to ascertain how the individuals died.
OSBI agents are coordinating with local law‑enforcement agencies, the Wright City Police Department, and the medical examiner’s office to piece together the circumstances surrounding the disappearance and subsequent discovery. No foul play has been publicly confirmed at this time, and investigators have asked anyone with information about the Woodmans’ last known activities to contact the OSBI.
Community response
The Woodmans were well‑known members of the Wright City community. Neighbors described them as hard‑working and family‑oriented, often seen helping out at local churches and community events. Their disappearance left a lingering sense of concern among residents, many of whom have been praying for answers.
Local faith leaders have offered prayers for the families and for the investigators working to uncover the truth. “We trust that God will bring comfort to those who mourn and guide the authorities as they seek answers,” said Pastor Mark Jensen of the First Baptist Church in Wright City.
What residents can do
Authorities encourage anyone who may have seen the Woodmans in the weeks leading up to their disappearance, or who noticed unusual activity around Pine Creek Lake, to reach out to the OSBI at (918) 555‑0123. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the state’s online tip portal.
As the investigation proceeds, the McCurtain County Sheriff’s Office will provide updates to the public. The community remains hopeful that the ongoing forensic work will shed light on this tragic case and bring a measure of peace to the Woodman family.
Original reporting: KXII News 12 (Gray) — read the source article.
