Lexington Man Found Dead with Stab Wounds after House Fire on Oak Ridge Lane
The Incident
A man on Oak Ridge Lane in Lexington has been found deceased, with multiple stab wounds, after a house fire took place overnight on Saturday. Upon arriving at the scene, the Lexington County Fire Service reported that smoke was heavily emanating from the roof of the residence.
Around the same time, a neighbor was seen pacing outside the house, unaware if the property was occupied. The neighbor reported that he had knocked on the front door repeatedly with no response before emergency services turned up.
The Discovery
While extinguishing the flames, two deputies reviewing the property spotted a foot from an open garage in the backyard. After clearing the vicinity for other potential residents or pets, the deputies found an individual in an unconscious state with visible facial swelling. Further investigative efforts led to the disastrous discovery of another body being dragged out of the home’s front door by the firefighters.
The Victim
The victim has now been identified as Caldwell Motley Jr., 38, a resident of Lexington. Coroner Margaret Fisher declared Motley dead at the scene, citing the cause of death as multiple stab wounds.
The Investigation
The tragic incident is currently being investigated by the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, the State Law Enforcement Arson Team, and the Lexington County Coroner’s Office. The presence of stab wounds indicates a potential case of foul play which was initially overlooked due to the raging fire.
An incident report highlighted that a perimeter was quickly established around the scene, with crime scene tape deployed to preserve potential evidence.
Unanswered Questions
The motive for the apparent murder, as well as the cause of the fire, are yet unclear. No further information about potential suspects or series of events leading to this violent incident has been released.
A Call for Information
Authorities are currently seeking the public’s assistance in uncovering any useful information that may aid in their investigation of this unfortunate incident. Community members with information are encouraged to come forward in order to shed light on the circumstances surrounding Motley’s untimely death and the fire.
In these troubling times, the community of Lexington stands together, hoping for swift justice and praying for the bereaved family and friends of Caldwell Motley Jr.
