Investigators Search for ‘Persons of Interest’ in Lexington County Stabbing, House Fire
Authorities in Lexington County, South Carolina are on the hunt for individuals of interest in a baffling case combining a fatal stabbing and a house fire. According to information revealed by concerned investigators, these ‘persons of interest’ are linked to these dreadful incidents that place an otherwise peaceful neighborhood in a state of shock and mourning.
A grizzly find in a scorched house
In one disconcerting weekend, a man identified as 38-year-old Caldwell Melton Motley Jr. was found tragically stabbed to death in his own home on Oak Ridge Lane, a property that had been swallowed up by flames. Lexington County Coroner, Margaret Fisher, confirmed that Motley lost his life due to multiple stab wounds.
Adding a layer of mystery to this unsettling case, an unidentified man was discovered in a detached garage in the premises’ backyard. Despite the grueling ordeal, the man is expected to survive and may hold key information to the investigations.
Progress made in investigations
While unwilling to reveal particular details at this stage of the investigation, a spokesperson from the sheriff’s department hinted at ‘good leads’ the team is currently pursuing. Motley was believed to be living with the second victim, and investigators have assured residents that there is no known threat to the neighborhood.
Neighborhood grapples with shock and loss
Only three houses away from the scorched crime scene, Leslie Queen and her husband are close neighbors who found themselves disturbed by the tragic events. Admitting a limited relationship with Motley, Queen mentions their occasional encounters during his routine dog walks. The sight of crime scene tape surrounding the house and the constant police presence is an unwelcome difference in the usually serene neighborhood.
Matthew Queen, a father living in the family-oriented community that includes an elementary school, elderly residents, and young children, commended the continuous police presence as reassuring. He stated that, despite being on the edge of a crime scene, the neighborhood ‘felt very safe.’
Victim not the homeowner
A check on local property records revealed that Motley is not listed as the owner of the house in question. When the question was raised as to whether the living victim was the homeowner, the sheriff’s department remained tight-lipped, stating they do not disclose victims’ names.
As the neighborhood comes to terms with the shocking events, investigators continue their earnest work gathering leads and information. As more details unfold and the identities of the ‘persons of interest’ become clear, the community eagerly awaits the resolution and ultimately, justice for Caldwell Melton Motley Jr.
