Death of Sturbridge’s Austin Schepper: Missing-person search now a murder case

The death of Sturbridge resident Austin Schepper, who was once the subject of a missing person’s investigation, is now considered a homicide.

Authorities say a Holland man is charged with murder in connection with Schepper’s death.

The body of Schepper was found off Union Road in Holland on Feb. 26, more than two weeks after he was last seen.

Jonathan Poirier was arraigned on a murder charge in Palmer District Court on Monday, according to a WLLP news of Springfield. The report, which cited information from the Hampden County District’s Attorney’s Office, said Poirier was ordered held without bail.

“Now, our attention turns to this case and seeking justice for the victim and his loved ones,” District Attorney Anthony Gulluni said. “I appreciate the efforts of the investigators, with whom we will continue to collaborate through the prosecution of this case.”

On Feb. 17, police distributed a photo of Schepper and of his SUV, a Toyota Rav4. The flyer said he was last seen Feb. 11 in Southbridge.

Days later, authorities reported his vehicle had been located at the Big Bunny market on Main Street in Southbridge. The status of the case was changed from missing to missing and endangered.

The investigation led authorities to the 100 block of Union Road on the afternoon of Feb. 26. A body was found in the area. There was a heavy police presence in the area for hours.

A week later, Gulluni confirmed that the body was that of Schepper. He added at the time: “This remains an ongoing investigation.

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This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Death of Sturbridge’s Austin Schepper, once a missing man, now a murder case