HUNTINGTON COUNTY, Ind. – Authorities in Indiana are on the hunt for a 37-year-old man accused of killing his 72-year-old grandmother with a sharp object, according to the Huntington County Sheriff’s Office. The body of Bernice D. Eubanks was discovered by deputies on Sunday evening after her family reported her missing for several days. Her grandson, Anthony Castleman, who had been living with her, is the prime suspect in the case.
Eubanks’ daughter visited her mother’s home and noticed a cut-out piece of rug, prompting her to call the authorities. Deputies then found the victim’s body outside near a barn, covered with a carpet and lattice. The Huntington County Coroner determined that Eubanks died due to multiple sharp force injuries, ruling the manner of death a homicide.
Investigators swiftly identified Castleman as the primary suspect in the case. According to an arrest report, Castleman visited his cousin’s house the day before Eubanks’ body was found and asked for bleach to clean up a mess, stating that he was “going to prison for a long time.” He arrived at his cousin’s house in Eubanks’ car and was using her cellphone at the time.
Authorities launched a manhunt for Castleman, who they believe fled the area and was attempting to leave the state. Despite misinformation circulating on social media about a search for a white car, the Huntington County Sheriff’s Office clarified that they are not currently looking for any vehicles.
The motive for the killing has not been disclosed by investigators. Castleman spoke with authorities over the phone on Sunday evening, claiming to be in Lexington, Kentucky. Law enforcement is urging the public to exercise caution and not approach Castleman if they have any information about his whereabouts. They should instead call 911 or contact the huntington County Sheriff’s Office or Indiana State Police.