News Summary
Myrtle Beach witnesses heartbreaking events as a 4-year-old boy drowns in a pool and a man dies under mysterious circumstances in a kangaroo enclosure. Ongoing investigations by local authorities aim to address community safety concerns while families mourn their losses. The police department is collecting details surrounding both incidents as they unfold, urging residents to respect the ongoing inquiries.
Myrtle Beach Reports Tragic Incidents Involving Drownings and Zoo Deaths
Fatal Drowning of 4-Year-Old Boy
A tragic incident occurred in Myrtle Beach, where a 4-year-old boy named Matthew Halliday drowned in a swimming pool at the Cape Landing community. Authorities reported that Matthew was discovered in the pool on May 8, 2025, and he later passed away at the Grand Strand Medical Center on May 10, 2025. The Horry County Coroner’s Office has ordered an autopsy to confirm the exact cause of death, and the investigation is currently being conducted by the Horry County Police Department. As of May 12, 2025, the situation remains under investigation.
Investigation into Kangaroo Enclosure Death
In a separate incident, the Horry County police are also investigating the death of 52-year-old Eric Slate, who was found dead inside a kangaroo enclosure at 5 Star Farm in Loris, SC, just before 11 p.m. on a recent Friday night. According to the coroner’s office, Slate had sustained multiple blunt force injuries. An autopsy has also been ordered to ascertain the precise cause of his death. This incident has raised questions about the safety of interactions between caretakers and the animals on the farm. All animals involved in the incident are accounted for, and authorities have confirmed that there is no ongoing risk to the community.
Details Surrounding Eric Slate’s Death
Eric Slate was known for his close relationship with the animals at the farm, particularly a 4-year-old red kangaroo named Jack. His brother, Robert Slate, expressed disbelief over the possibility that such animals could have caused Eric’s injuries, noting that Eric had not left the premesis significantly on the day he died, except for a brief trip to purchase new shoes. Spring Simmons, a longtime employee at 5 Star Farm, remembered Eric as someone who enjoyed interacting with the animals he cared for.
Family’s Response
The Slate family is currently making arrangements for Eric’s funeral services and is requesting prayers as they navigate this difficult time. Robert Slate has been addressing various reactions and comments regarding Eric’s death, emphasizing that they are dealing with immense grief.
Ongoing Investigations
Both of these incidents have garnered significant attention in Horry County, leading to thorough investigations by local authorities. The tragic drowning of young Matthew Halliday and the mysterious circumstances surrounding Eric Slate’s death within an animal enclosure reflect critical public safety concerns. The Horry County Police Department is dedicated to resolving these cases in a timely and thorough manner.
Residents and community members are urged to refrain from speculation while investigations are ongoing and to support affected families during this challenging period.
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Additional Resources
- WMBF News: Horry County Farm Owner Speaks Out After Brother Found Dead in Kangaroo Enclosure
- Horry News: Coroner Confirms 4-Year-Old Drowns in Myrtle Beach Area Pool
- WBTW: 4-Year-Old Dies After Being Found in Horry County Swimming Pool
- WXII: Person Found Dead in Animal-Related Incident in Horry County
- Myrtle Beach Online: Details on the Recent Tragic Incidents
