(WPDE) — The mother of 18-year-old Jerrius Davis said she wants to know immediately more about the officer-involved shooting Saturday night on the boardwalk in Myrtle Beach that claimed her son's life
RELATED: Everything we know about the North Ocean Blvd. shooting: 11 injured, 1 dead
Jaeishala Fox said she's beyond frustrated because the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) isn't telling her much of anything
leaving her with more questions than answers
She added she was so proud of him for exercising his right to vote after he had turned 18
Fox said her son suffered from Sickle Cell Anemia and had just gotten his treatment in Charleston two days before he was shot and killed
She said Jerrius and his 16-year-old brother went to the beach with a close friend and that friend's parents for spring break
Fox said she had just talked with Jerrius not long before the shooting happened
She said her 16-year-old and a friend heard the gunshots and ran toward Jerrius
South Carolina's Open Carry Law says anyone 18 or older can carry a weapon without a permit
"It's so sad in today's time that an 18-year-old has to have a weapon to feel like they've got to protect themselves
My baby asked me 'could he get a weapon?' And I told him 'no
I didn't want him to have one right now.' Because I wanted him to go to the classes as I did
And I taught him the things from what the class say
You don't brandish a weapon unless there's a threat to you
Unless you feel your life is in danger," Fox explained
Officials with the Bennettsville Police Department said they've never had any problems with Jerrius and didn't even know who he was because he'd never been on their radar
Officers said they provided extra officers at Marlboro County High School Monday at the request of the Marlboro County School District
Bennetttsville Police Chief Sammy Crosland said they normally increase police presence at schools when incidents happen in the area or surrounding communities involving a local student
ABC 15 reached out to the Marlboro County School District
asking why they requested the additional officers
The district shared the following response:
Fox said her son was a good kid with a beautiful heart and smile
She added she's not going to rest until she learns the full truth of what led up to the shooting
Fox said it's now her mission and quest
WKRN News 2
18-year-old Bennettsville man identified as subject in deadly Myrtle Beach officer-involved shooting
Fairview is both embracing growth and working to maintain its small-town feel
The CoolSprings Galleria has been an important part of Williamson County for years
New commercial properties could soon be on the way to Spring Hill
A convicted felon is back behind bars after being accused in a South Nashville burglary
The Clarksville Police Department announced that authorities were still searching for a suspect
The governor's office said that Tennessee has a long track record of standing up to enforce the country's borders
Many Nashville families have more questions than answers following an ICE operation in Music City
"Nashville's wine country" sits about twenty minutes outside of Franklin
Money could be flowing to fix major flood problems in Montgomery County
Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle have responded to the activity in South Nashville
Tennessee state troopers worked with federal agents in South Nashville
A new police department is officially opening its doors in Spring Hill
COLUMBIA
today announced it is expanding its operations in Marlboro County
The company’s $8.4 million investment will create 24 new jobs
The company has more than 25 years of experience and specializes in printing camouflages for the U.S
Located at 410 Highway 385 in Bennettsville
Bennettsville Printing will expand its existing fabric printing manufacturing system
including updated production equipment and building improvements
Operations are expected to begin by the end of 2025
Individuals interested in joining the Bennettsville Printing team should visit the company’s careers page
we are proud to deepen our commitment to Marlboro County
the state of South Carolina and our local community with this $8.4 million investment,” said Bennettsville Printing General Manager Frank Goenz
“This expansion not only strengthens our operations but also creates 24 new jobs
reinforcing our dedication to economic growth and long-term partnerships in the region
We look forward to continuing our role as a key contributor to the local textile industry and the prosperity of the community we proudly call home.”
“Bennettsville Printing’s expansion announcement reinforces South Carolina’s reputation as an exceptional place to do business
We are proud to celebrate Bennettsville Printing’s continued success in our state and the additional jobs it is creating in the Marlboro County community,” said Gov
“It is always exciting when a company expands operations in one of our rural communities
we celebrate Bennettsville Printing’s decision to invest $8.4 million in its Marlboro County facility,” added Secretary of Commerce Harry M
“We congratulate the company on this announcement and are grateful for the continued commitment to South Carolina.”
We understand here in Marlboro County that economic development is a team sport
Any successful coach will tell you that teamwork wins championships
We would like to thank Bennettsville Printing for choosing Marlboro County for their next expansion,” concluded Marlboro County Council Chairman Anthony Woods
Source: South Carolina Office of the Governor
(WPDE) — The Marlboro County Sheriff's Office is urgently seeking the public's assistance in locating Charles Edward McArthur
McArthur is wanted in connection with a shooting incident in the Bennettsville community on April 18
Deputies accuse McArthur of discharging a firearm into an occupied dwelling where two people were present
The charges from the Good Friday incident include two counts of assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature
possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime
The Sheriff's Office emphasized that McArthur is considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law
Anyone with information on McArthur's whereabouts is urged to contact the Marlboro County Sheriff's Office
You can call or text the Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office TIP LINE at 843-897-4818
(WPDE) — Bennettsville City Council members unanimously voted Tuesday night to name Sammy Crosland as the new police chief effective May 1
Crosland had been appointed interim chief last month after the former chief announced his retirement
Crosland has 28 years of experience in law enforcement and proven leadership
The city administration has said they’re confident that with Crosland's leadership
and believe the City of Bennettsville Police Department will continue to thrive
maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for all
(WPDE) — Bennettsville Mayor Pro tem Tyron Abraham has won the special election for Mayor of Bennettsville based on unofficial election results
Leith Fowler resigned as mayor in late September citing health reasons
Wanda Weaver and Abraham are running head-to-head in the special election to fill the unexpired term of mayor
Unofficial results show Abraham garnered 581 votes to Weaver's 293 in what local officials called a low-turnout election.
More than 4400 people are registered voters in Bennettsville and unofficial results tally 878 votes were cast on the New Year's Eve special election day
Janiyha Townsend was arrested and charged with trafficking crack cocaine
possession of a weapon during a violent crime
Demond Dominique Samuel was arrested and charged with possession with intent to distribute of crack cocaine
(WPDE) — Following a traffic stop in the Bennettsville area of Marlboro County
two people were arrested and charged with drug offenses
Marlboro County Chief Deputy Larry Turner said an officer
observed a man approach a parked car in front of a business
Turner said the officer reported seeing the man
and then the driver reached into a bag and handed the man an item."
The officer then “activated his blue lights
TRENDING: 1 dead, 1 airlifted to hospital after head-on crash in Dillon
The officer said that he “observed a bag containing a large amount of money and another bag with an unidentified substance," according to Turner
He added that the man attempted to conceal the substance in a purple bag and leaned his seat back
Turner said that’s when the officer requested the driver to turn off the car and hand over the keys
They’re both being held at the Marlboro County Detention Center awaiting a bond hearing
(WPDE) — Turnout is very low on Tuesday for the Bennettsville mayoral race
Fellow Bennettsville council members Wanda Weaver and Tyron Abraham are going head to head for the special election to fill the unexpired term of mayor
Leith Fowler resigned from the position in October citing health reasons
Voters elected Fowler to the position last November
so roughly three years remain for the term
Some polling precincts saw fewer than 50 voters around noon
Those who are coming out to cast their ballot said they're voting to make sure the right person is elected
Weaver represents District 1 on the Bennettsville City Council
She shared the following statement on social as to why she's running for mayor
"I am announcing my candidacy for mayor in the upcoming Bennettsville Mayoral Special Election
I have been a tireless advocate for ALL citizens of Bennettsville
My background as a downtown small business owner and church administrative secretary in our historic district gives me the relevant experience to understand our collective strengths
I will work together with all stakeholders on practical
workable solutions designed to grow and move our city forward
Transparency in city affairs and finances and accountability by city leaders is crucial to attaining these goals
Your suggestions and ideas will lay the foundation for the decisions that will be made
I look forward to meeting all of you within the next two months
I hope to earn your trust and your vote."
Abraham represents District 5 on the Bennettsville City Council
He shared the following message via social media on why he wants to be the city's next mayor
Prayers and so many calls asking me to run for the position of Mayor; I am announcing my candidacy for Mayor of this Great City
my campaign will be 'Let the Work I've Done and Will continue to Do Speak for me.' I believe in positive leadership and working TOGETHER
I have worked diligently and volunteered my services for 25-plus years
my services will be visible across ALL of Bennettsville
We have to have a positive leader who can work across the board with other elected officials."
ABC15 will let you know the results of the election when they're made available to us
(WPDE) — The South Carolina Office of the Governor announced Friday that 24 new jobs would be coming to Marlboro County through the expansion of Bennettsville Printing
The fabric printing company is investing $8.4 million into its facility at 410 Highway 385
TODAY: Meth, marijuana, revolver and cash found by k-9 in Darlington traffic stop
Operations within the expanded facility are expected to begin by the end of 2025
(WPDE) — A Bennettsville man is being held at the Dillon County Detention Center for safekeeping after being accused of a number of crimes in the city limits of Bennettsville
Calvonte Zimmerman is charged with kidnapping
assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature following an incident on Feb
TRENDING: Driver runs into building after bullets strike car in Robeson Co.
No additional information is being released at this time
according to the Bennettsville Police Department
was charged with attempted murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime
This arrest followed an investigation after the shooting
officers responded to a shooting on Breeden Street
READ NEXT: 1 dead, 3 injured after Florence collision
They located a victim suffering from multiple gunshot wounds
The victim received aid and was transported for medical treatment
The Marlboro County Sheriff's Office and the South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division assisted
They said anyone with further information should contact BPD at 843-479-3620 or their tip line at 843-456-7813
(WPDE) — The Bennettsville Police Department is actively investigating two separate shooting incidents that took place last weekend
Officers responded to a shooting on Breeden Street in Bennettsville and found a man who had been shot multiple times
according to Bennettsville Interim Police Chief Sammy Crosland
Crosland said officers immediately rendered aid and secured the scene until EMS and additional emergency personnel arrived on scene
The man was transported to the hospital for further treatment and remains in critical condition
officers received a report of a second shooting
TRENDING: 'Raped by demons:' Myrtle Beach pastors accused of sexual, psychological abuse
Emergency services were contacted about a man stating that he was shot while in the area of Broad Street and Ellen Street
Officials said the man was already being transported to a medical facility in a personal car
Marlboro County EMS was able to intercept him and rapidly render aid
He was later flown to another medical facility for further assessments and treatment
the victim is in stable condition," Crosland said
the two shootings do not appear to be related
no arrests have been made in the shootings and they remain under investigation
"The safety of our citizens remains our highest priority
We will dedicate every resource available to ensure those responsible for these acts of violence are identified and brought to justice
investigators and first responders work tirelessly to protect this community
and we will not waver in that commitment," Crosland said
"To the families and loved ones affected by these senseless acts
we extend our deepest concerns and prayers during this difficult time
Our department will remain vigilant in pursuing justice and ensuring that Bennettsville remains a place where residents feel safe
We ask for the community's support and assistance."
you're asked to call the Bennettsville Police Department at 843-479-3620 or the tip line at 843-456-7813
of Transportation and police are on scene of an incident Tuesday afternoon on Carrollton Avenue off of Highway 15-401 in Bennettsville
Several first responders are hovered in a grassy area along the road
A state trooper on scene said he can’t release any information at this time
but did indicate it was a serious incident
He said more information will be released later Tuesday afternoon
SC (WPDE) — The State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has been called in to help investigate of a deadly shooting Saturday night or early Sunday morning in the city limits of Bennettsville
Bennettsville Police Lieutenant Shawn Lucas said two people were shot in the Shady Rest community at "some sort of gathering."
23-year-old Qualech Gaines died at a hospital
according to Marlboro County Coroner Tim Brown
TOP STORIES:Shooting kills 23-year-old in downtown Darlington
Shawn Lucas said no arrests have been made and the incident remains under investigation
Share on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInBENNETTSVILLE
(WMBF) - The City of Bennettsville will have a familiar face now leading its police force
Sammy Crosland was promoted from the interim police chief to a permanent role during a city council meeting on Tuesday
Crosland said he’s grateful for the opportunity and is looking forward to further serving the community
my commitment is to build upon the foundation of public trust and transparency while fostering stronger relationships between our department and the citizens of Bennettsville
I believe in community-focused policing—where collaboration
and accountability guide our every action," he said
Crosland said his focus as the new chief will center around key areas such as community engagement
accountability and transparency as well as youth and outreach programs
You can read Crosland’s full statement below this story
“It is with deep honor and humility that I accept the responsibility of serving as the new Chief of Police for the Bennettsville Police Department
I am grateful for the opportunity to lead a team of dedicated professionals who work tirelessly each day to protect and serve our community with integrity
support our officers with the training and tools they need
I am excited about the future of our department and the positive impact we can make
side by side with the community we proudly serve
I thank the City of Bennettsville for entrusting me with this role
and I look forward to leading with integrity
“As the new Chief of Police for the Bennettsville Police Department
I am committed to advancing a clear vision rooted in professionalism
My primary focus will center on five key areas:
Community Engagement: I believe public safety is a shared responsibility
I will prioritize building strong partnerships with community members
we will strengthen the trust between the department and the citizens we serve
Officer Development and Morale: Our officers are the backbone of the department
and wellness to ensure they are well-equipped and motivated to serve with excellence and compassion
Crime Reduction and Prevention: We will implement data-driven strategies to address crime proactively
Emphasis will be placed on identifying trends
and increasing visibility in neighborhoods to deter criminal activity and increase community safety
Accountability and Transparency: I am committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity within our department
and an open-door approach will guide our efforts to ensure accountability and build public confidence
Youth and Outreach Programs: Building a stronger relationship with our youth is essential to long-term community safety
I will prioritize programs that create positive interactions between law enforcement and our youth
helping shape future leaders and reduce the likelihood of crime
My vision is to lead a department that is responsive
we will create a safer and stronger Bennettsville for all."
(WPDE) — An inmate death at a state prison in Marlboro County on Thursday is under investigation
according to Marlboro County Coroner De’Aron Smith
Smith said the inmate was pronounced deceased on scene at Evans Correctional Institution in Bennettsville
The inmate was transported for forensic autopsy scheduled for later this week
SEE MORE: Inmate found dead at Florence Co. Detention Center prompts SLED investigation
The incident is being investigated by the State Law Enforcement Division
Department of Corrections and the Marlboro County Coroner’s Office
(WPDE) — Dozens of police officers are in the Shady Rest community of Bennettsville as part of a special operation
Officers said it's a joint effort with the Bennettsville Police Dept
and the Marlboro County Sheriff's Office
Police have been cracking down in the community for the past couple of months following a deadly shooting
Neighbors said there appeared to be a whole SWAT team going in and out of different homes in the area
More information is expected to be released in the coming days
CyHeim McCrae appears to have secured a seat on the Bennettsville City Council
The special election is to fill the seat left vacant by Tyron Abraham
who went on to win the Bennettsville mayoral race in December
Marlboro County Voter Registration and Elections Office Director Christina Thompson said Ken Stroman
and CyHeim McCrae are all vying for the seat
Unofficial race results show McCrae with 77% of the vote
Thompson said voter turnout has been extremely low, with fewer than 30 people voting by 1:45 Tuesday afternoon.
She added that about 24 people voted during early voting. Unofficial results show a total of 115 voters turned out for the special election.
rural towns still don’t have access to the high-speed broadband services that urban and suburban areas may have
As part of Spectrum’s Rural Construction Initiative
driven by a more than $7 billion investment from the Company
joined Spectrum’s network of connected communities in the Spring of 2024
Annabell now runs her online rug business from home with a reliable connection while Deshaune learns online
thrives and Johnny's meat business keeps up with customer demand
residents are experiencing all the opportunity a Spectrum connection brings to their daily lives
“High-speed internet – it’s a game changer,” said Johnny
Many more cities and towns will be added to Spectrum’s broadband network this year
creating unlimited opportunities for more people in more places
More about Spectrum's broadband expansion can be found here
(WPDE) — Someone opened fire on an officer as he patrolled Patton Street in the Firestone area of Bennettsville this past Saturday night
Bob Hale with the Bennettsville Police Department
but his patrol car was hit by three bullets
demonstrating exceptional composure under fire
immediately secured the area and radioed for backup,” Hale said
Multiple units quickly responded and searched the area
"It is still uncertain if this was a targeted act against law enforcement
this dangerous and reckless act could have had devastating consequences
We will not tolerate such brazen violence against our officers or the community we serve
The individual or individuals responsible for this attack will be apprehended and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” said Bennettsville Police Chief Kevin Miller
Police are actively investigating this incident and pursuing all leads
“The safety of our officers and the community remains our highest priority
We will continue to operate with heightened vigilance as this investigation unfolds,” said Hale
Additional patrols have been deployed in the area
and residents are asked to remain alert and report any suspicious activity immediately
“We will not rest until those responsible for this attack are brought to justice,” Hale added
Officers urge anyone with information to come forward
Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling the Bennettsville Police Department tip line at 843-456-7813 or 911
(WPDE) — A was teen found safe by the Atlanta Police Department after going missing
Police were searching for 14-year-old Zikiyyah Smith who was last seen Saturday night on Cook Street in Bennettsville
Officers said Smith's last known whereabouts were on North Cook Street at the laundromat in Bennettsville
Officers said the girl got into a white truck that could be Ford or Chevy model with an 18-year-old driver possibly from Alabama
Police said the girl wasn’t forced to get inside the truck
officers said the man tried to “hide his face,” according to a witness
Shawn Lucas with the Bennettsville Police Department
two women are charged in in connection with an assault of a woman this week at a home on Jordan Street in Bennettsville
Lucas said they got a call about a break-in at a home involving damages
He added about 30 minutes later they got a call of a fight in progress at the home
TRENDING:18-year-old Waffle House employee shot, killed on the job in Laurinburg: Police
Lucas said a woman had been assaulted and hit in the head with a gun
Lucas said they arrested Titiyanna Green and charged her with pointing and presenting a firearm
He said Tynajia Brown is charged with assault by mob
Lucas said officers charged Breonna Scott with disorderly conduct
(WMBF) - An investigation has started for a shooting that took place on Sunday in the Bennettsville area
Shawn Lucas with the Bennettsville Police Department told WMBF News that three people were shot in the the Shady Rest area
One person died from injuries and two were taken to a hospital to be treated for their injuries
Lucas later confirmed to WMBF News one of the victims injured was a 15-year-old student at Marlboro County High School
Lucas said the shooting was not related to the threats the Marlboro County School District saw this week
RELATED COVERAGE: Pee Dee school district details ‘alarming’ incidents that led to eLearning days
Extra law enforcement personnel were at the high school on Monday after the shooting
which Lucas called standard in these situations
(WMBF) - Authorities are investigating after a man sentenced to federal prison was found dead in the Pee Dee
The Federal Bureau of Prisons said Keenan Byrd
was found unresponsive on the evening of Dec
19 at the Federal Correctional Institution Bennettsville
Officials said employees began life-saving measures when Byrd was discovered and EMS was requested
Byrd was serving a two-year sentence for possession of a firearm by a felon
He had been serving his sentence in Bennettsville since June
NEWS10 ABC
People in the Capital Region are used to seeing movies filmed around here
but what happened in one local city was a horror movie scene that came to life
One brave citizen helped save the day before police arrested a man in a clown mask who was carrying an electric chainsaw
Local restaurant owner speaks in Washington about tariff impact
Knee replacement won't stop local woman from running 5k
Multiple cars had their windows smashed in at an apartment complex in Watervliet last October
Police just recently charged the suspect tied to this case with a felony
A team is investigating Monday to see if there was any further damage to the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse foundation after a tugboat and barge crashed into the monument last week
New York is recognizing the deadly epidemic that’s impacted Indigenous people for generations
May 5 is the National Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (M.M.I.P.) Awareness Day but the state is now acknowledging an awareness week
Proposed rebates for electric landscaping equipment
Mildred Elley to open new Amsterdam location
Over $69K raised from 45th annual Crop Hunger Walk
single engine plane landed in a field Friday morning just shy of the runway at the Bennettsville Airport
according to Marlboro County Fire and Rescue Services Coordinator Keith Hughes
TRENDING: Florence woman alleges excessive force by school security during child pickup incident
a van's RV-8 landed in a field near the Marlboro County Jetport on Friday morning after the pilot reported an engine issue
Hughes said crews on scene are reporting that there’s no major damage to the plane
SC (WPDE) — The City of Bennettsville has been awarded $1.79 million to provide home repair grants for damages caused by extreme weather
City leaders said eligible homeowners can receive up to $30,000 in repairs as an effort to restore and strengthen the community
City leaders will begin reaching out to pre-applicants and local contractors to bring these much-needed improvements to community members
MORE: 12-year-old's teeth partially knocked out during assault at Lumberton school
Officials said this is a major step in improving the quality of life for the citizens, especially those in the Richardson Park and Shady Rest communities.
The money to repair the homes is made possible due to South Carolina Housing Trust Fund (SCHTF).
President Donald Trump delivers Investing in America remarks from the White House.
WATCHMyrtle Beach shooting witnesses recount terrifying moments as gunfire eruptsby Alexis Cooper
Ocean Boulevard in Myrtle Beach Saturday night has left one person dead and 11 others injured
according to the Myrtle Beach Police Department
The Horry County coroner told ABC15 that 18-year-old Jerrius Davis from Bennettsville was shot and killed last night
The officer involved in the shooting was not injured
and authorities were able to open up the road leading out of Ocean Boulevard early Sunday afternoon
ABC15 caught up with residents and tourists who were around the scene at the time of the shooting
READ MORE: 11 injured, 1 dead after shooting on North Ocean Blvd, SLED investigating: MBPD
that's the only word I know to say,” said tourist Michael Howard
Howard said it was all in front of his eyes
and it was something he will never be able to forget
TRENDING: Fire damages Horry Co. home, officials say
“I heard somebody say 'gun,' and I remember turning around and I saw a gun held up in the air and a couple shots fired
and then I saw a police officer start shooting,” Howard said
said Ocean Boulevard was filled with teenagers on Saturday
who were scared for their safety during and after the incident
“It was just crazy seeing the children run
and a lot of the people out here were young
but some witnesses say they're thankful to still be alive
"Just seeing people hit the ground and taking cover and
so fearing for my safety but thankful I'm still alive and okay," Howard said
Information on those injured and the officer who fired the shot has not been released yet
MBPD tells ABC15 that the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is leading the investigation
Horry County Police Department told ABC15 they are not a part of the investigation
Officers ask anyone with information or video footage related to this case to give them a call at 843-918-1382
(WPDE) — An inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) in Bennettsville had to be transported to the hospital Wednesday for evaluation due to possible drug use
according to Benjamin O'Cone with the Federal Bureau of Prisons Office of Public Affairs
O’Cone said the inmate was evaluated and returned the same day
He added the Federal Bureau of Prisons (FBOP) including FCI Bennettsville “takes seriously our duty to protect the inmates entrusted in our custody
as well as maintain the safety of correctional employees and the community.”
O’Cone said they make every effort to ensure the physical safety of inmates confined to our facilities through a controlled environment that is secure and humane
In the event employees become aware of the introduction or use of illicit substances
There is no further information to provide into this incident
as an internal investigation is still ongoing
(WPDE) — Deputies responded to a shootout Friday morning at a mobile home park on Highway 38 North in Bennettsville
according to Marlboro County Sheriff Charles Lemon
Lemon said two men got into an argument and exchanged gunfire
He added one man was hurt in the shootout and has been taken to a hospital in Florence
TRENDING: 'It was all a con job:' Horry Co. couple talks contractor fraud, tips for prevention
There is no word on his condition at this time
Lemon said the other man involved in the exchange of gunfire has been arrested
(WMBF) - One person was arrested in connection to a shooting in the Pee Dee earlier this month
The Bennettsville Police Department said 41-year-old Travis Esaw was taken into custody on Friday
Esaw is charged with attempted murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime
Police say the charges are linked to an incident earlier this month when officers found a victim with multiple gunshot wounds on Breeden Street
PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Police investigating pair of unrelated Bennettsville shootings, 2 hurt
Anyone with any information should contact 843-479-3620
(WPDE) — A large structure caught fire on Tuesday morning in the Bennettsville area
The incident broke out just before 7:00 a.m
A man who lives in the area said he heard a loud explosion before seeing massive flames consumed the building
TRENDING: New information revealed in 20-year-old murder of Lake City woman
Officials said the McColl Fire Department is assisting the Bennettsville Fire Department to help get the fire contained and under control
ABC15 has reached out to the Bennettsville Fire Department to learn more about the fire
WSPA 7NEWS
The sheriff's office said a person of interest has been detained
Read more: https://www.wspa.com/news/local-news/deputies-on-scene-at-shooting-in-anderson-co/
including ones with United Way of Greenville County and United Way of the Piedmont
were terminated due to a shift in federal priorities
Read more: https://www.wspa.com/news/top-stories/upstate-americorp-members-impacted-as-doge-terminates-grants/(opens in a new tab)
More than 3,800 checks will be mailed out to people in South Carolina in the coming weeks as the State Treasurer's Office works to return hundreds of thousands of dollars in unclaimed property
Read more: https://www.wspa.com/news/state-news/thousands-of-south-carolinians-could-receive-a-check-from-the-state-treasurers-office-this-month-heres-why/
The Travelers Rest Planning and Development Committee denied the request to annex 19-acres to build "The Inn at Altamont" on Monday night
Read more: https://www.wspa.com/news/local-news/request-to-annex-land-for-hotel-on-paris-mountain-denied-whats-next/
The sheriff's office will share video of the shooting on June 18
Read more: https://www.wspa.com/news/1-dead-in-greenville-co-deputy-involved-shooting/
announced Monday that he’s not running for U.S
Senate in 2026 against Democratic incumbent Jon Ossoff
READ MORE: https://www.wspa.com/news/state-news/georgia-republican-gov-brian-kemp-wont-run-for-us-senate-seat-in-2026-against-democrat-jon-ossoff/
Police are asking for the public’s help as the investigation into a shooting at an Upstate mall last Friday continues
READ MORE: https://www.wspa.com/news/local-news/police-ask-public-to-share-video-footage-of-spartanburg-mall-shooting/
Accessing available healthcare that is more conveniently located is now a reality for people living in Piedmont
The Anderson County Coroner is enroute to a shooting on Checkerberry Lane in Pendleton
SC Bill would require every school board meeting to be recorded and posted
Two men were fishing in Buncombe County on Sunday when they reportedly found a body
(WPDE) — Regina Brown Covington is charged with attempted murder after she stabbed a relative Monday night in a home on Breeden Street at Sunnybank Street in Bennettsville
according to Lieutenant Shawn Lucas with the Bennettsville Police Department
Lucas said the victim is being treated at the hospital for his injuries
TRENDING:Western North Carolina stars shine light on community in need at record-breaking event
Lucas said Covington left the home before officers got on the scene
which is nearby to where the stabbing happened
Covington is being held at the Marlboro County Detention Center awaiting a bond hearing
(WPDE) — A shooting investigation leads to a chase and manhunt in Marlboro County
The Marlboro County Sheriff's Office and the Bennettsville Police Department responded to a shooting Monday morning within the city limits of Bennettsville
A man was shot in the Tatum area of Marlboro County and was transported to a nearby hospital
SEE MORE: Railroad crossings closing in Wilson, Johnston, Cumberland and Robeson counties
A deputy witnessed a silver Saturn shooting multiple rounds into a vehicle within the city limits
resulting in the car crashing off Quick Lane Road
Three people ran out of the car and a search area was established near a wooded area behind a residence off Quick Lane Road with the assistance of the Bennettsville Police Department
The Chesterfield County Sheriff’s Office bloodhound team responded and successfully tracked down one of the individuals
and a second male suspect was taken into custody a short time later on Pineview Road
Marlboro County Sheriff Larry McNiel requested Marlboro Central dispatch to issue robocalls to community members who live in the surrounding area regarding the armed and dangerous individuals
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has been requested to assist in processing the evidence
along with the city of Bennettsville Police Dept.
will continue to “diligently work together to continue cracking down on the disregard for human life with these senseless shootings"
The arrests in this incident were a collaborative effort between law enforcement and the community working together for a common goal
This investigation is ongoing and more updates will be provided
Anyone with information pertaining to this incident should contact 911 or the Marlboro County Sheriff Office at 843-479-5605
Bennettsville Police Department at 843-479-3620 or Marlboro County Central Dispatch at 843-479-9999
(WPDE) — According to officials with the Marlboro County Elections and Voter Registration Office
Wanda Weaver and Tyron Abraham have filed to run for the special election to fill the unexpired term of Bennettsville mayor
Leith Fowler resigned from the position about two weeks ago citing health reasons
Filing for the mayor's race opened on October 11 and ended on October 21
I have been a tireless advocate for ALL citizens of Bennettsville
Your suggestions and ideas will lay the foundation for the decisions that will be made
I hope to earn your trust and your vote."
Abraham represents District 5 on the Bennettsville city council
Officials said early voting begins December 16 and ends December 20 at the voter registrations office on Market Street in Bennettsville
It opens again on December 23 and 27 at the voter registration office
The special election will be held on December 31
(WPDE) — An acting police chief has been appointed after the Bennettsville police chief announced retirement
has been appointment as acting chief of police
Police Chief Kevin Miller is retiring after eight years of service to the community
Miller was described by the city as a "steadfast leader" who oversaw public safety improvements and worked to protect and serve Bennettsville residents
said this transition will not disrupt police operations or services to the community
contact city administration at 843-479-9001
KGET 17 News
Bakersfield hit-and-run suspect turned himself in after crash
Lakeside Union School District Grand Jury Report flags concerns
Looking at the behind-the-scenes technology behind 911 calls
States with the most strict DUI laws - info from Nolo
1 dead at construction site in west Bakersfield
Digital Addiction: The time spent in front of cellphone screens has 'rewired' modern childhood
(WPDE) — The City of Bennettsville is taking steps to mitigate flooding in the Shady Rest community
Crews have been out in Shady Rest this week sweeping roads and cleaning out ditches
The plan is to improve drainage to nearby Lindsey Creek along Lindsay Avenue
The city’s efforts in conjunction with the state improve the area to help lessen any flooding
Neighbors have dealt with a decades-old flooding problem in the community
Shady Rest runs along Crooked Creek and whenever the body of water overflows its banks
all of the water comes rushing down to the neighborhood
The creek toppled over its banks last summer during Tropical Storm Debby leading to dozens of neighbors evacuating their homes
The City of Bennettsville has previously sent crews to clean and dredge ditches in the communities that could be clogged leading to all the flooding
Crews have in recent months also placed lime in the area to help control any odors and removed large trees and branches from the ditches
(WPDE) — A man has been apprehended by the Bennettsville Police Dept
and Operation Clean Sweep for existing drug charges
Eric Kelly was arrested on existing charges and outstanding warrants for distribution of methamphetamine and distribution of methamphetamine near a playground
He is currently awaiting a bond hearing at the Marlboro County Detention Center
(WPDE) — A 3-year-old boy has been released from the hospital and is now recovering at home after being hit by a car last Saturday on East Main Street in Bennettsville
who was walking with his mother and siblings at the time
attempted to cross the roadway to catch up with his grandmother
the little boy entered the roadway before his mother could intervene and was struck by a car
Emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene
and the child was transported via helicopter to the Carolina Medical Center in Charlotte for further evaluation and treatment
Bennettsville Police Chief Kevin Miller said they've determined the driver of the vehicle was "not at fault and there was no evidence of any parental inattention or neglect contributing to this unfortunate incident
TRENDING: Crews working to rescue man trapped in farm grain bin in Dillon
Miller said they appreciated the driver’s cooperation and careful actions during the investigation
He added he's thankful the child is recovering at home with family
“It is truly a blessing to hear that the child is home and doing well after such a frightening incident
We are thankful for the quick response of our first responders and the medical professionals who cared for him
This serves as an important reminder to us all about the need for vigilance when it comes to pedestrian safety," said Miller
He said their thoughts and prayers remain with the child and his family as he continues to recover
The Bennettsville Police Department would like to remind the public of the following pedestrian safety tips:
(WPDE) — Bennettsville Mayor Leith Fowler is stepping down effective immediately due to health reasons
Fowler said he loves Bennettsville with all his heart but he has to take care of his health
He said during his campaign that he had never run for public office but has always been very active in the community
Fowler said during his campaign that his goals would be to bring people together from all segments of our community with improved communication and cooperation
Many people in the community said they believed Fowler was doing a good job
but I understand that his health comes first
it is not clear when a special election will be held to fill the unexpired term of the mayor’s seat
(WPDE) — A Marlboro County man has died due to hypothermia from exposure to the cold
Brown said a passerby saw the man lying outside a business this past Saturday morning along the 200 block of Highway 401 in Bennettsville
Brown said 911 was called and the man was taken to McLeod Health Cheraw where he was pronounced dead
He added he was not sure why the man had been outside exposed to the cold
TRENDING: Market Common retail stores talk Small Business Saturday impacts
According to ABC15 Chief Meteorologist Ed Piotrowski
this past weekend saw several afternoons in the 40’s and nights in the 30’s
Hypothermia occurs after “exposure to cold
with continued exposure to cold temperatures
your body uses up its stored energy and your body temperature begins to fall,” according to information from the Cleveland Clinic
the man’s death in Bennettsville isn’t the first due to hypothermia
a 53-year-old woman died near Maple Park in Florence due to exposure to the cold
(WPDE) — Several ABC15 viewers have reached out in the past three weeks regarding helicopters constantly seen flying over Bennettsville
as well as officers from different agencies
including the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) throughout the city
ABC15 talked with Bennettsville Police Chief Kevin Miller about what's been going on in the city
Miller said the increased police presence and aerial support were all a part of a couple of special operations
The operations followed a shooting that left one man dead and a 15-year-old badly wounded last month in the Shady Rest community
"We have made one arrest concerning that incident
And we are hoping to have some other details come forth hopefully with some evidence that will be brought to light soon," said Miller
South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) and the Chesterfield County Sheriff's Office helped in the special operations
"We called in every last thing we could
In anticipation of any issues we may have faced."
Miller added the first special operation took place on September 20
Miller said officers saturated streets and communities where they've had several problems in recent years
He said officers even did foot patrols in the communities
Miller added they set up near a church to make sure people who attended a funeral there would be safe
The second special operation took place this past weekend
which happened to be homecoming weekend for Marlboro County High School
Miller said SLED agents seized several guns during the operation
And I would say rather close proximity to where the football game was being played
Miller said they responded to 70 calls this past weekend
which is nearly ten times more than their usual weekend call volume
he said not one of the calls involved a shooting incident
And I would say the community responding in a positive way
He said people were cooperative and receptive to what they were doing
Miller said they arrested about six people and believes the number was low due to the crime suppression efforts
He praised his Bennettsville police officers for all their work during the planning and execution of the special operations
He said he's proud to work with a group of men and women so dedicated to serving and protecting the community
Miller is also grateful to the neighboring and state law enforcement agencies who provided much needed support
(WPDE) — Bennettsville Mayor Pro tem Tyrone Abraham said he promises to continue leading and moving the city forward following the resignation of the mayor
Leith Fowler resigned as mayor last week citing health reasons
A special election hasn't been set at this time
TRENDING: FCSO investigating social media post regarding student arrest
Abraham shared the following message with community members via social media:
It is with great sorrow that Mayor Leith Fowler resigned from his position due to health issues
I look forward to working close with our City Administrator and our City council members to carry out the duties of our city; and continue to build positive relationships with our County and State agencies
I believe in working as a team to complete our mission
Our mission is to represent the Great Citizens of Bennettsville
My goal as Mayor Pro Tem is to update all needed Ordinances to bring our City up to code and make our City more inviting to new businesses
Bennettsville is a beautiful town but over the years there has been neglect that has led to disrepair that must be addressed
this will not happen overnight but working together it can happen
After numerous calls and prayers from people living in the city
I am considering running for Mayor of this Great City
Never forget we must be "One Team - One Mission - Open for Change."
ABC 15 will let you know when a date has been set for an election to fill the unexpired term of the mayor's position.