John Edward Rhames Obituary, Death – Authorities in Clarendon County are actively investigating a deadly shooting after a man was found dead in a ditch early Sunday morning. Deputies from the Clarendon County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call around 7:42 a.m. on April 13 regarding a possible deceased person near the intersection of Washington Street and Louis Street in Summerton, South Carolina.
When deputies arrived on the scene, they discovered the body of a man lying in a roadside ditch. Upon closer inspection, investigators determined that the victim had suffered a gunshot wound to the back of the head. The man was later identified as 32-year-old John Edward Rhames, a resident of Summerton.
The Clarendon County Sheriff’s Office, along with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), has classified Rhames’ death as a homicide and launched a joint investigation to uncover who may be responsible. As of now, officials have not released any information regarding potential suspects, and no arrests have been made in connection with the case.
Investigators are urging anyone who might have knowledge of the incident or who may have seen anything suspicious in the area around the time of the shooting to come forward. Tips can be provided by calling the Clarendon County Sheriff’s Office at 803-435-4414 or by using their 24-hour anonymous tip line at 803-433-TIPS (8477).
Authorities say the investigation is still in its early stages and that all leads are being thoroughly pursued. The motive for the killing remains unclear, and officials have not yet commented on whether Rhames was targeted or if the shooting appeared to be a random act of violence. Forensic experts and crime scene analysts have processed the scene for evidence, but details on what, if anything, was recovered have not yet been shared with the public.
Rhames’ killing marks one of two homicides currently under investigation in Clarendon County in the span of just a few days. On Tuesday, law enforcement officials confirmed the death of 25-year-old Tyrese Najae Lawson. Lawson, who had been reported missing earlier, was discovered dead along a dirt road elsewhere in the county on Monday night.
Authorities have not said whether the two deaths are related in any way, but both cases are being treated as homicides. Similar to the Rhames case, no arrests have been announced in Lawson’s killing either, and officials are seeking information from the public to assist in both investigations.
The Clarendon County Sheriff’s Office is asking the community to remain vigilant and report anything suspicious. They also emphasized that public cooperation can play a critical role in helping solve violent crimes like these. Residents are encouraged to call either the sheriff’s office directly or use the anonymous tip line if they have any information at all, no matter how small it might seem.
As the community grapples with the news of two violent deaths in such a short time, officials have also attempted to reassure the public that these incidents are being thoroughly investigated. The sheriff’s office stated they are working closely with SLED and other agencies to make progress in both cases and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
Family members and friends of John Edward Rhames are mourning his unexpected death. Rhames, a known member of the Summerton community, was described by some who knew him as a quiet and respectful man. His sudden and violent death has left loved ones devastated and searching for answers.
Meanwhile, the discovery of Lawson’s body has added further distress to the area, as Clarendon County residents fear the implications of back-to-back homicides within days of each other. As of now, law enforcement has not drawn any connections between the two cases, but both investigations remain open and active.
With two young men dead under violent circumstances and no suspects yet in custody, the Clarendon County Sheriff’s Office is under pressure to solve the cases and restore a sense of safety to the area. Officials continue to process leads and follow up on information received from the community, hoping that someone may have witnessed something that could lead to a break in either case.
Anyone with details, video surveillance, or any relevant information is urged to contact law enforcement immediately. Information can be submitted anonymously, and authorities stress that even the smallest tip could be crucial in helping investigators solve these tragic crimes.
As the investigations unfold, the sheriff’s office and SLED will likely release additional information when it becomes available. In the meantime, the community is asked to support the ongoing efforts by remaining alert, cooperative, and compassionate toward the families who have lost their loved ones.