Remains of Missing Columbia Mother Identified in Woods

Lead: Human remains discovered Friday afternoon in a wooded area off Shakespeare Lane in Columbia have been confirmed as those of 56-year-old Angela Fuller, authorities announced today. Nut Graf: Fuller, missing since late August, drew a massive search effort after being last seen with acquaintance Anthony Reese on August 29; her identification brings a heartbreaking close to a community-wide investigation.

Discovery and Identification

Officers from the Columbia Police Department and Richland County Sheriff’s Department found the remains behind a beauty supply store in the 100 block of Shakespeare Lane, initiating a focused sweep of the wooded lot. The Richland County Coroner’s Office formally identified the remains early Friday, confirming Fuller’s identity.

Person of Interest

• Anthony Reese, 55, who was last seen with Fuller, has been named a person of interest.
• Reese remains in custody at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center on unrelated charges stemming from a high-speed chase.
• No charges have been filed in connection with Fuller’s death; investigators continue to treat the case as a potential homicide.

Family Reaction and Ongoing Investigation

Fuller’s niece, Emani Harley, described the mix of relief and devastation felt by the family: “We hoped for her safe return but feared this outcome,” she said. Law enforcement officials urge anyone with tips-no matter how small-to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CriMSC, emphasizing that “every lead matters” as the probe continues.

Community Response

Local volunteers and crime-scene technicians have combed nearly 100 locations across Columbia since Fuller’s disappearance on August 29. City leaders applauded the search effort: “Our officers worked tirelessly alongside neighbors to find Angela,” said Deputy Chief Melron Kelly.

Further details are expected as detectives follow up on forensic evidence and witness statements.