Woman Missing for 2 Years Found Under Firepit; Roommate Charged with Murder

A man from South Carolina has been arrested and charged with murder following the discovery of the remains of his former roommate, who had been missing for over two years. The body of 51-year-old Penni Whiteside was found buried under a firepit in her yard last June, as confirmed by the Myrtle Beach Police Department.

Authorities report that Whiteside had been missing since spring 2022. Her remains were uncovered on June 12 during a search of her property in Myrtle Beach. The police had received information from neighbors suggesting that she might be buried in the backyard, where 54-year-old Sheridan Dirk Fogle was residing at that time.

“Neighbors had expressed concerns regarding the victim’s disappearance and believed she was buried near the residence, under a firepit,” the Myrtle Beach Police Department stated. “Following this information, investigators obtained a search warrant for the property. During the investigation, the victim’s remains were found and positively identified.”

As investigators considered Whiteside’s death a homicide, an arrest warrant for Fogle was issued. This warrant was executed on Thursday morning around 7:30 a.m. in Orangeburg, South Carolina. Fogle was taken into custody in connection with the “missing person and murder case,” authorities noted.

Upon his arrest, Fogle faced murder charges related to Whiteside’s death. Law enforcement officials expressed their condolences, stating, “This is a tragic loss of life and a senseless crime of violence. We ask that you continue to pray for the family and friends of the victim.” The Myrtle Beach Police Department emphasized their commitment to pursuing justice and holding accountable those responsible for such harm. They also thanked the U.S. Marshals Service – Carolina’s Regional Fugitive Task Force, along with the Orangeburg Department of Public Safety, for their assistance in the arrest.

Fogle made an appearance in court on Friday, where a judge decided not to set bail for him. According to a report from WPDE, an ABC News affiliate in Florence, South Carolina, the Myrtle Beach judge indicated that the case would be referred to the general sessions court. Two upcoming court dates have been scheduled for October 25 and December 13.

The investigation remains active, and authorities have indicated that no further information will be released at this stage. The tragic circumstances surrounding this case highlight ongoing concerns about violence and accountability in the community.

As the situation evolves, local residents and officials alike continue to reflect on the impact of this crime while awaiting the legal proceedings to unfold. The efforts to seek justice for Penni Whiteside and her loved ones remain a priority for the authorities involved in the case.