Authorities in South Carolina have discovered a body in a wooded area where Elena Katherine Moore, a 39-year-old personal trainer, was last seen nearly a week ago. The Lexington Police Department (LPD) confirmed the body fits the clothing description of Moore, who vanished after leaving a Planet Fitness gym on June 11. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has joined the investigation to determine the cause of death and confirm the identity.
Part 1: Immediate Action & Core Facts
The body was found on Wednesday, June 18, following a citizen tip that led investigators to conduct a targeted search. Lexington Police Chief Terrence Green stated the body was wearing a green outfit consistent with Moore’s last-known attire. The Lexington County Coroner’s Office will conduct an autopsy to formally identify the remains and determine the cause of death.
Part 2: Deeper Dive & Context
Last Known Movements
Moore was last captured on surveillance footage walking toward Old Cherokee Road near a Publix grocery store at 9:17 p.m. on June 11. She had signed into Planet Fitness at 560 Whiteford Way earlier that evening. Police received a tip on Wednesday that Moore was seen near North Lake Drive and Old Cherokee Road, prompting the search that led to the discovery.
Investigation Details
The case has been classified as an active death investigation, with SLED assisting LPD. The coroner’s office noted the identification process may take time. Moore worked as a personal trainer at Wolf’s Fitness Center in Lexington and was a regular at the Planet Fitness location where she was last seen.
Public Response & Next Steps
Authorities have not released further details pending the coroner’s findings. The community has been actively involved in the search, with tips leading to critical developments. The investigation remains ongoing as officials work to confirm the identity and circumstances surrounding the death.