Photo caption: justin queen, 32, has been charged with murder and destruction of human remains in connection with the death of his mother, christy dunn, following a 14-month investigation.
Photo Caption: Justin Queen, 32, has been charged with murder and destruction of human remains in connection with the death of his mother, Christy Dunn, following a 14-month investigation.

Son Charged With Murder 14 Months After Mother Reported Missing

In July 2025, investigators searching Dunn’s property discovered what appeared to be human bones in a burn pit. Additional remains were later recovered and confirmed to be human, according to the sheriff’s office. DNA testing was also requested.
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1 min read
August 30, 2026

ANDERSON, S.C. — A 32-year-old Anderson man has been charged with murder more than a year after his mother disappeared, following an investigation that uncovered burned human remains on her property.

The Anderson County Sheriff’s Office charged Justin Queen with murder and destruction of human remains in the death of his mother, 52-year-old Christy Dunn.

Dunn was reported missing after her employer requested a welfare check June 27, 2025. Investigators said her vehicle and personal belongings remained at home, while her debit card continued to be used after her disappearance.

In July 2025, investigators searching Dunn’s property discovered what appeared to be human bones in a burn pit. Additional remains were later recovered and confirmed to be human, according to the sheriff’s office. DNA testing was also requested.

During the 14-month investigation, detectives reviewed financial and cellphone records, surveillance footage and witness statements. Investigators determined an assault occurred inside Dunn’s home and her body was later taken to the burn pit.

Authorities said they believe the remains are Dunn’s.

Queen is being held at the Anderson County Detention Center awaiting a bond hearing. The investigation remains ongoing.

Daniel Smith

Daniel is first year journalism student from Maryland who serves as part time crime beat for Maryland, Delaware, Virginia for Shore News Network. His hobbies and interests are computer science, fishing, and spending summers at the beach. He started with Shore News Network as a journalist intern on August 27, 2026. He hopes to one day work in the industry as a forensic and investigative journalist.