> At a Glance
> – Rebecca Beets, 55, vanished Jan. 3 while walking near Novelty Drive in Greer, S.C.
> – Her body was located two days later by GCSO drone pilots in a wooded area
> – Coroner ruled suicide; police say no foul play suspected
> – Why it matters: Tragic loss highlights mental-health struggles among educators and need for community support
A beloved preschool special-education assistant whose disappearance rattled her Upstate South Carolina community has been found dead in what authorities call a suicide.
Rebecca Beets, 55, was last seen Saturday, Jan. 3, strolling along Novelty Drive in Greer. When she didn’t return home, worried relatives reported her missing, prompting a rapid search involving Greenville County Sheriff’s Office drone pilots.
Discovery and Identification
On Jan. 5, deputies located a female body in nearby woods using aerial drones. The Greenville County Coroner’s Office quickly confirmed the remains were Beets’. An autopsy determined the cause of death was suicide, according to a department spokesperson, adding there was “nothing suspicious.”
Community Mourns
Beets spent her days helping preschoolers with special needs at Greenview Child Development Center, part of Greenville County Schools. Colleagues describe her as patient, kind-hearted, and devoted to her students.
Greer Police Department issued a brief but heartfelt statement:
> “We extend our deepest condolences to Ms. Beets’ family, friends, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. We ask the community to keep them in their thoughts.”
Key Takeaways
- Timeline: Disappeared Jan. 3 → body found Jan. 5
- Cause of death: Officially ruled suicide by coroner
- Search method: Drone technology pinpointed location in woods
- Workplace: Greenview Child Development Center, Greenville County Schools
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