Detectives are investigating a Gaston man’s death as a homicide after deputies found his body in his home during a welfare check Monday night.
Lexington County Coroner Margaret Fisher has identified the man as 67-year-old Robert John Kobylak.
“We responded to Mr. Kobylak’s home in the 200 block of Shadow Dale Drive in Gaston after two of his friends requested a welfare check,” Lexington County Sheriff Jay Koon said. “Some items were left in disarray near Mr. Kobylak’s body and around his house. That’s prompted us to investigate his death as a homicide.”
Kobylak’s car was missing from his home’s driveway when deputies arrived Monday night and hasn’t been seen since, according to Koon.
“We’re asking the public to be on the lookout for a blue 2006 Toyota Corolla,” Koon said. “Mr. Kobylak’s car had a South Carolina license plate, MIL 958. Investigators have also been told the car only had one passenger side hubcap.”
Anyone with information on what might have happened to Kobylak is asked to call Crimestoppers at 888-CRIME-SC. Information can also be shared by texting “TIPSC” along with your message to CRIMES (274637).
Tipsters don’t have to share their name with Crimestoppers and they could become eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000 if the information they provide leads to an arrest.