An Anderson man has been charged with murder and destruction of human remains in connection with the disappearance and death of his mother following a 14-month investigation by the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office.
Justin Queen, 32, is accused in the death of 52-year-old Christy Dunn, who was reported missing in June 2025 after her employer requested a welfare check when she had not been seen for about a week.
Deputies responded to Dunn’s residence on June 27, 2025, but were unable to locate her. Investigators said several circumstances surrounding her disappearance raised concerns and prompted an extensive investigation.
According to the sheriff’s office, Dunn’s vehicle and personal belongings remained at her residence after she disappeared. Investigators also learned that her debit card continued to be used after she was reported missing.
In July 2025, detectives and forensic investigators with the sheriff’s office, along with the Anderson County Coroner’s Office and a forensic anthropologist from Clemson University, searched Dunn’s residence for evidence of human remains.
Investigators reported finding what appeared to be human bones in a burn pit on the property. A later search resulted in the recovery of additional remains. The remains were confirmed to be human and were sent to a DNA laboratory in Texas for further testing.
During the investigation, detectives reviewed financial and cell phone records, surveillance footage and other evidence. Witnesses also told investigators that Queen had previously been seen in the woods with Dunn.
The sheriff’s office said detectives determined that an assault occurred inside the residence and that Dunn’s body was later taken to the burn pit. Based on the evidence collected, investigators believe the burned remains recovered from the property are Dunn’s.
After reviewing the case, the 10th Circuit Solicitor’s Office determined there was sufficient probable cause to seek charges against Queen.
Queen has been charged with murder and destruction of human remains and is being held at the Anderson County Detention Center awaiting a bond hearing.
The investigation under investigation.
