Sheriff identifies body discovered in marijuana grow house

Historic City News has been informed that an autopsy of 43-year-old William Allen Carey is underway to determine the cause and manner of his death.

Carey’s remains were discovered after a co-worker reported him missing from work on Friday. Sheriff’s deputies responded and made the discovery inside a residence in the 500 block of Deerfield Road; east of US-1, north of White Castle Road. Carey was a graphic artist.

Kevin Kelshaw reported that there is no evidence of foul play at this time; however, Major Crimes Unit detectives are continuing the investigation.

A hazardous material team from St Johns County Fire Rescue and members of the sheriff’s clandestine lab team responded to the location when deputies also discovered a small hydroponic marijuana grow operation at the residence. No chemical hazards were identified.

Carey’s next-of-kin was informed of his death earlier today.

According to available records, Carey’s local address had been reported as 3570 Begonia Street in Saint Augustine since June of 2013; previously he lived in Fort Lauderdale. Additional information will become available as the scene investigation progresses and the autopsy results are released.