Oak Island Police Refute Speculation in Ongoing Death Investigation

July 9, 2026 Coastal Carolina News Staff Brunswick County, Crime & Public Safety, Government, News 0

Officials clarify that the May 17 incident remains an open death investigation with no evidence of foul play

OAK ISLAND, NC — The Oak Island Police Department (OIPD) issued a formal statement on July 7, 2026, to address inaccurate reports and public speculation regarding the May 17 death of 40-year-old Patrice Jones Bass of Henderson, NC.

The department confirmed that the investigation into the incident, which occurred at 105 SE 58th Street in Oak Island, remains open and ongoing. Officials stressed that the incident is officially classified as a death investigation and has not been labeled as a homicide. “At no point has any evidence collected at the scene or following indicated signs of violence or criminal acts,” the department stated.

The investigation involved a comprehensive response from multiple agencies, including the OIPD Criminal Investigation Division (CID), Brunswick County EMS, and the Oak Island Fire Department. On-site activities included a thorough scene search, neighborhood canvassing, and multiple witness interviews. While the department is currently awaiting final autopsy and toxicology results from the North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (OCME), preliminary information indicates that the victim’s injuries are consistent with those sustained in a fall.

The department addressed recent reports published by other outlets, characterizing the claims of ignored inquiries as unfounded. Officials noted that they were contacted by these parties during the Independence Day holiday but have remained in constant communication with the victim’s immediate family throughout the process.

“Out of respect to the immediate families they affect, death investigations are not published unless they present an immediate public safety concern,” the department clarified.

The OIPD reaffirmed its commitment to objective, transparent community policing and urged residents to verify information through official town channels. Updates will be issued immediately should the status of the investigation change.