Sumter deputies launch investigation after body found in woods; sheriff suspects no foul play

The identity of the individual whose body was found in a wooded area on Sunday has been released.

Sumter County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a call about a body found in the wooded area by residents across from U.S. 15 South, between Loman Road and Timmerman Street,  at about 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 28, according to Mark Bordeaux, public information officer for Sumter County Sheriff’s Office.

After deputies examined the scene and collected evidence, the body was taken to Sumter County Coroner’s Office, where the individual was identified as 31-year-old Howard Alexander Hodge of Sumter, according to Sheriff Anthony Dennis.

“The preliminary results of our investigation, along with the work of the coroner, do not indicate trauma or foul play,” Dennis said. “We will know conclusively following an autopsy. The investigation into Mr. Hodge’s death is still underway, and an update will be provided when more information is available.”