Authorities in South Carolina have arrested a 25-year-old man after the grim discovery of human remains inside a barrel floating in Lake Thicketty, Gaffney. Eric Shawn Fetzer faces charges related to the desecration and removal of human remains. The investigation, involving multiple agencies, began on Thursday after the partially submerged barrel was spotted. The Spartanburg County Coroner’s Office identified the deceased as 56-year-old Jeffrey Sutphin, who had been reported missing since June 15th. Cherokee County Sheriff Steve Mueller indicated that investigators suspect foul play. While the initial discovery was made in Cherokee County, the case has been transferred to Spartanburg County authorities after it was determined that Sutphin died there. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities pursuing leads and gathering further information.

Eric Shawn Fetzer, 25, arrested in connection with the discovery. (Cherokee County Sheriff's Office)

Lake Thicketty, Gaffney, S.C., where the barrel was found. (Google Maps)

The case has been transferred to Spartanburg County authorities. (iStock)