News Summary
Brandon Strickland, a former deputy chief of the Horry County Police Department, is under investigation related to the shooting death of Scott Spivey. The shooting occurred on September 9, 2023, and has sparked community outrage and demands for accountability. Strickland’s resignation days before the investigation announcement has raised suspicions, prompting further scrutiny from both SLED and the FBI. As the situation develops, the community seeks answers and justice for Spivey’s death.
Brandon Strickland Under Scrutiny After Scott Spivey’s Tragic Shooting
Longs, South Carolina – A *former police leader*, Brandon Strickland, is currently facing an investigation for his *alleged misconduct* connected to the controversial shooting death of Scott Spivey. This news has sent ripples through the community, with many eager for answers regarding the incident and the unfolding investigation.
A Sudden Exit
Strickland, who held the position of *deputy chief* at the Horry County Police Department, handed in his resignation just days before the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) announced the probe on Thursday. It is important to note that Strickland was not part of the original investigation of Spivey’s shooting, but the peculiar timing of his resignation has raised many eyebrows.
The Incident That Shook a Community
The tragic *shooting death* of Scott Spivey took place on September 9, 2023, on Camp Swamp Road near Highway 9 in Longs. According to reports, Spivey was shot and killed during an encounter that involved Weldon Boyd, a local restaurant owner, and his passenger Kenneth Williams. Both Boyd and Williams claimed that their actions were in *self-defense*, but the community is questioning whether that narrative holds true. Neither individual has faced any criminal charges in connection to Spivey’s death, other than allegations surrounding their account of the incident.
Pressure Mounting for Answers
A review conducted by SLED in 2024 concluded that there was insufficient evidence to move forward with charges against Boyd and Williams. However, a wave of community discontent over the initial findings led the Horry County Police Department to request a second look at the case from both SLED and the FBI. The community’s distress and quest for clarity have prompted authorities to address the case further.
FBI’s Role in the Review
The FBI has acknowledged a request for their assistance in reviewing the case, but their involvement at this stage remains uncertain. This new layer of scrutiny adds to what has already been a complicated situation for both the law enforcement agency and the grieving family.
Community Outcry and Further Actions
Scott Spivey’s sister, Jennifer Foley, has taken a strong stance in demanding accountability. She has been vocal in her calls for a deeper examination into the events surrounding her brother’s death. In 2024, Foley filed a *wrongful death lawsuit* against Boyd and Williams, alleging civil assault and civil battery. Her dogged pursuit for truth underscores the significant emotional weight of this case and the community’s desire for justice.
9-1-1 Calls Paint a Picture
Adding to the dramatic narrative, 911 calls from the night of the shooting reveal Boyd’s assertions that Spivey was allegedly waving a gun from his vehicle. These claims and subsequent encounters led to police closing the case in April 2024, with officers stating they would not pursue prosecution based on the conclusions drawn by SLED and the Attorney General’s Office.
The Horry County Police Department’s Response
Horry County Police Chief Kris Leonhardt has emphasized the department’s commitment to taking *community concerns seriously*. As part of their due diligence, the department is currently undertaking its own review in connection with Strickland’s actions related to this case. The internal process aims to ensure transparency and maintain public trust, which has been shaky amidst the ongoing investigation.
What Comes Next?
As the inquiry unfolds, all eyes will be on the findings of both SLED and the FBI. The community of Longs is eager for answers, and the dark cloud of uncertainty surrounding this shooting continues to loom large. With advocacy for justice echoing through the town, it is clear that people are ready for whatever comes next in this *concerning saga*.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Horry County Police Request Federal Review on Shooting Case
Additional Resources
- WMBF News
- Myrtle Beach Online
- WISTV
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Horry County shooting
- Google Search: Horry County shooting
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
