Two Georgia firefighters who disappeared were found dead in Tennessee; autopsy underway
The bodies of two Georgia firefighters who disappeared late last month were located in Tennessee, police said.
The Hinesville Police Department announced on Sunday that authorities found Raegan Anderson and Chandler Kuhbander in Cocke County, Tennessee. In addition to the remains, police said Anderson's vehicle was also found.
According to local news, the duo was last seen at Liberty County Fire Services on June 25 in Georgia.
"Liberty County Fire Services is deeply saddened to receive the news regarding Lt. Raegan Anderson and Senior Firefighter Chandler Kuhbander," Fire Chief Brian Darby said in a statement. "These two extremely dedicated employees put their hearts and souls into protecting and serving the citizens of Liberty County. Our prayers, and those of the department, are with the families during this difficult time.
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Autopsy underway to identify bodies, cause of death
Before their bodies were found, authorities released a missing flyer that said that Anderson and Kuhbander were traveling in a 2017 Ford Focus with a dark tint, smoke-out tail lights, and a Georgia license plate.
WTOC reported that Anderson and Kuhbander were once romantically involved. On June 22, days before they went missing, there was an incident at an Olive Garden. According to a police report obtained by the outlet, Anderson went into the restaurant and saw Kuhbander on a date.
"Ms. Anderson caused a disturbance with Mr. Kuhbander, and she walked outside and keyed his vehicle," the report said.
The Cocke County Sheriff's Office and Tennessee Bureau of Investigation are leading the probe in this case and are working to determine the circumstances leading to their death. The sheriff's office and the TBI did not identify the firefighters by name.
"Their bodies have been sent for an autopsy to determine the cause and manner of death," the agency said in a statement to USA TODAY. "Additional information will be provided once the individuals have been positively identified. At this time, the investigation is ongoing."
Taylor Ardrey is a news reporter for USA TODAY. You can reach her at [email protected].