A tragic end has been reported in relation to the Christmas Day disappearance of 60-year old Salem man Chris Williams with ties to the Owensville area.

Williams was last seen leaving Bourbon at approximately 10:22 p.m. headed to Owensville’s Lost Valley Resort area, but never arrived.

As reported by the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP), Williams was traveling on Hobby Hut Road one mile north of I-44 near Leasburg when his red 2007 Chevrolet Silverado traveled off the left side of the roadway, struck a rock wall and overturned, coming to a rest on its top.

The vehicle was not discovered until one week later on Jan. 2 due to being behind a small structure in an area of heavy brush.

Williams was a member of the congregation of Cornerstone Apostolic Church of Owensville and True Apostolic Church of Salem.

Dylan McGinnis, pastor of the Salem church, shared that he found Williams after the seven-day long search.

“I truly believe that God led me to the accident scene so that he can be found,” McGinnis said on Facebook.

Williams was employed with Clemco Industries Corp. of Washington which shared a Facebook post about Williams’ passing on Tuesday.

“His loss is felt deeply not only within our organization but throughout the community he was part of…Chris will be remembered for his warm and infectious smile, his kind heart, and the way he made others feel seen and welcomed,” the representative said. “He brought light with him, and that presence will be deeply missed by coworkers, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.”

Master Sergeant J.J. McDonald investigated the crash with assistance by Corporal J. T. Peart. Williams was reportedly wearing a seatbelt.