TK Burton’s family waits for update after remains found in Randolph County

RANDOLPH COUNTY, N.C. (WGHP) — Thomas “TK” Burton, 30, was last seen on July 29 at a Citgo gas station in Winston-Salem. Almost two months later, his loved ones fear the worst.

On Monday, Winston-Salem detectives and Randolph County deputies searched a property off Rob Cruthis Road in Archdale and found human remains.

The sheriff’s office sent those remains to the state medical examiner’s office for identification, and Burton’s family is waiting to learn if they belong to him.

A close friend of TK and his wife Jacqueline spoke with FOX8. Emily Rutherford said the past 50 days have been extremely painful while loved ones wait for any word on what happened to TK.

“I’ve known TK for … ten years, so I have been a part of their little love story for many years. Watching them grow up together has been a blessing,” Rutherford said.

TK and his wife Jacqueline’s love story goes back to high school. They welcomed their first child together in 2023.

Everyone is shocked after learning Winston-Salem police along with Randolph County sheriff’s deputies searched the property of Beau Benjamin Martin in Archdale on Monday afternoon.

Authorities put up a blue tent. Hours later, the sheriff’s office confirmed human remains were discovered.

Martin, 31, was charged with felony failing to report a death.

Close friends say authorities called the family yesterday and asked to see pictures of TK’s tattoos. The human remains were sent to the state medical examiner’s office to be identified.

“He was just a ball of light. You walked in the room, and you’d see his infectious smile. He was a great person,” Rutherford said.

Rutherford says she doesn’t believe TK would’ve ever left his family willingly, and they all desperately want answers.

“We just want closure and answers,” she said.

There is a fundraiser on GoFundMe , and any proceeds left will go to Jacqueline and the couple’s son. The Randolph County Sheriff’s office says the investigation is still ongoing.

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