Authorities have confirmed that human remains discovered last month beneath a bridge on River Watch Parkway belong to Cindy E. Reese, a 59-year-old homeless woman who had fallen on hard times in recent years.
On May 20, the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office responded to a tip about a possible grave site beneath the eastbound bridge near Fifteenth Street. Deputies discovered freshly disturbed soil and later uncovered human remains buried in a shallow grave.
The Richmond County Coroner’s Office confirmed Reese’s identity on Friday. The cause of death has not yet been determined and remains pending an autopsy by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
Reese’s case is now being handled by Investigator Sean Morrow, and authorities have released few additional details as the investigation continues.
On social media, people who knew Reese shared memories and condolences, painting a picture of a woman who had faced significant personal struggles. During her homelessness, she had been arrested for burglary, shoplifting and criminal trespass.
“This lady has not always been homeless,” wrote Sherrel Wilson. “Her husband died a few years back. She raised the son in a wheelchair for many years and took care of him. I don’t know how she got in this situation but I’m very sorry for her. She was really sweet.”
Lisa Minyard added, “I knew Cindy very well as I helped care for Rhett. I really hate seeing this.. my heart goes out to her family.”
Others remembered her kindness from their time together in shelters. “We was at the Salvation Army together. She made sure my kids was straight,” wrote Lovely Nicole. “She was like an Auntie to them. There’s no way y’all could do something like this… REST ON CINDY LOU!!!! I LOVE YOU.”
Another commenter, Shelby Poston, shared: “A long time family friend that we lost contact with over the years. So sorry to see this. Rest easy, Cindy.”
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office says the Criminal Investigation Division, Crime Scene Unit, and Homeless Operations Team are all working together on the case. No further details have been released at this time.
