Horry County, South Carolina, October 18, 2025
News Summary
The murder trial of Meagan Jackson, accused of killing her partner Gregory Rice, has gained national attention due to exclusive evidence and interviews featured on ABC’s ’20/20′. Jackson was found guilty and sentenced to life in prison. Key testimony from her ex-lover Christopher Dontell adds intrigue, as he claimed to witness the murder and assisted in body disposal. The trial’s complexity is highlighted by the defense’s argument that Dontell was the true perpetrator. An upcoming episode of ’20/20′ will delve deeper into the case’s events and personal relationships.
Horry County, South Carolina – Meagan Jackson’s Murder Trial Receives Nationwide Attention
The murder trial of Meagan Jackson is drawing significant nationwide attention, partially due to exclusive interviews and evidence set to be featured in an upcoming episode of ABC’s “20/20”. The trial, which began on June 12, 2025, examines the death of Gregory Rice, Jackson’s partner. On June 17, 2025, Jackson was found guilty of murder and sentenced to life in prison.
Details of the Testimony
Central to the case is the testimony of Christopher Dontell, the former Horry County deputy coroner and Jackson’s ex-lover. He pleaded guilty to being an accessory after the fact and for criminal conspiracy in connection with Rice’s murder, subsequently receiving a 20-year prison sentence comprised of a five-year term for accessory after the fact and a 15-year term for conspiracy, which will run consecutively. During Jackson’s trial, Dontell testified that he witnessed Jackson shoot Rice outside his apartment complex and assisted her in disposing of the body. Prosecutors described Jackson as a “master manipulator” who had a motive to infiltrate Dontell’s marriage and eliminate Rice.
Defense and Arguments
On the other hand, Jackson’s defense team argued that she was not the perpetrator of the crime, asserting that it was, in fact, Dontell who committed the murder. The prosecution supported their case with compelling evidence, including text messages exchanged between Jackson and Rice, which clarified that Rice was aware of Jackson’s pregnancy with Dontell. This correspondence presented a narrative suggesting Jackson’s motives leading to Rice’s death.
Key Evidence
Alongside digital communications, an anonymous email revealed an affair between Jackson and Dontell before the murder. This email was sent to Erica Dontell prior to the fatal incident and alarmingly included attached nude photographs. Further forensic evidence examined during the trial included five bullets recovered from Rice’s body, although no murder weapon was found. However, a .22 caliber gun box was discovered at Jackson’s residence, giving the investigators further leads.
Upcoming “20/20” Episode
The episode of “20/20,” titled “Driven to Death,” is scheduled to air on October 17, 2025, at 9 p.m. EST on ABC, with availability for streaming on Hulu after the premiere. This special will delve deeper into the relationships and events leading up to the tragic murder. It will include interviews with Christopher Dontell, his wife Erica, Jackson’s daughter Savannah Rice, and Jackson’s friend Ryan Michniewicz. Savannah Rice had previously testified at her mother’s trial, recalling comments Jackson made concerning the prospect of killing Rice prior to the murder. The episode will also feature a letter from Jackson written while incarcerated.
Conclusion
This high-profile murder trial not only reveals the complexities of personal relationships but also highlights the intertwining of crime and courtroom procedures. As the legal battle unfolds, the public will gain further insights through media coverage and dedicated programs like “20/20”.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the focus of Meagan Jackson’s murder trial?
The murder trial focuses on the death of Gregory Rice, Jackson’s partner.
What was the outcome of Meagan Jackson’s trial?
Jackson was found guilty of murder and sentenced to life in prison on June 17, 2025.
What role did Christopher Dontell play in the trial?
Christopher Dontell testified against Jackson, stating he witnessed her shoot Rice and helped her dispose of the body. He pleaded guilty to being an accessory after the fact and conspiracy.
When will the “20/20” episode featuring this case air?
The episode titled “Driven to Death” is set to premiere on October 17, 2025, at 9 p.m. EST on ABC and will be available for streaming on Hulu the following day.
Key Features of Meagan Jackson’s Case
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Trial Start Date | June 12, 2025 |
| Verdict | Found guilty of murder and sentenced to life in prison on June 17, 2025. |
| Testimonial Evidence | Christopher Dontell’s testimony on witnessing the murder and assisting afterwards. |
| Prosecution’s Argument | Described Jackson as a “master manipulator” with motives rooted in personal relationships. |
| 20/20 Episode Title | Driven to Death |
| Episode Air Date | October 17, 2025, at 9 p.m. EST. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Horry County Murder Trial Delayed Again
Conway Community Shaken as Trial Approaches for Woman Accused of Fatal Shooting of Ex-Partner
New Charges Against Ex-Deputy Coroner, Conway Woman in Horry County Homicide
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Horry County ABC Murder Trial
- ABC News: Father’s Disappearance Exposes Shocking Affair Murder Plot
- WBTW: Testimony Continues in Myrtle Beach Killing Trial
- WPDE: Man to Be Tried for Murder of South Florence Student
- Myrtle Beach Online: Local Crime Updates
- Wikipedia: Murder
- Google Search: Meagan Jackson Murder Trial
- Google Scholar: Meagan Jackson
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Legal Trial
- Google News: Meagan Jackson Murder
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.
