With heavy hearts, the Dillon County community mourns the loss of Richard Thomas Sweat, 50, of the Oak Grove community, who was found deceased on February 6, 2026, following a missing person investigation.
Mr. Sweat was last heard from on Saturday, January 24, 2026, around 5:30 p.m., and was last seen in the Oak Grove area. After his disappearance was reported, multiple agencies and volunteers joined in an extensive search effort.
According to the Dillon County Coroner, Mr. Sweat’s body was recovered and will be transported at a later date for an autopsy. No additional details regarding the cause of death have been released at this time.
Sheriff Jamie Hamilton expressed sincere gratitude to all agencies and individuals who assisted in the search, including the Dillon County Sheriff’s Office, Dillon County Emergency Services, Chesterfield County Sheriff’s Office, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), and the CUE Center for Missing Persons.
Richard Thomas Sweat’s passing has left family, friends, and the community grieving. He will be remembered for the life he lived and the impact he had on those around him.
Please keep the Sweat family in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.
