Medical Examiner Rules DeFuniak Springs Death As Drug Overdose

September 21, 2016

The Medical Examiner’s Office completed the Autopsy of August Wayne Piper and has ruled that a drug overdose was the cause. According to the Medical Examiner’s Report, Piper died of “accidental acute methamphetamine intoxication.” Based on these findings, the DeFuniak Springs Police have concluded their investigation. “My thoughts are with the family. I am relieved that there is no evidence of foul play and there can be closure for the family in this case,” said Chief Mark Weeks.

On April 12. 2016, the DeFuniak Springs Police Department investigated human remains found in a wooded area behind the DeFuniak Springs Little League Ball Park. Witnesses reported finding clothing and bones in the wooded area near a holding pond where they were going fishing.  A bicycle and other personal effects were located a short distance from the sight of the remains.

Based on personal items found, the remains are believed to be those of 34 year old August Wayne Piper. Piper was originally reported missing in mid-January of this year and was last seen riding his bike on 21st Street.

Officers/Investigators with DeFuniak Springs Police and Walton County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) Deputies searched the area for evidence. The WCSO Crime Scene Technicians did respond to collect evidence and process the scene. 

On May 04, 2016, the Medical Examiner’s Office positively identified the remains as those of August Wayne Piper.