Lexington Man Arrested for Murder Following Discovery of Body in Burnt House

A Man in Lexington Faces Murder Charges as Body Found

Lexington—A shocking incident unravels in Lexington as authorities make an arrest amid the discovery of a man’s body inside a burning home this past July. The suspect, identified as 39-year-old Edward Leroy Smith of Winnsboro, was taken into custody on August 13 on a charge of murder.

Victim Identified

The victim, found inside the scorched home, has been identified as Caldwell Melton Motley Jr., a Lexington local. According to the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, Smith faces charges of Motley’s fatal stabbing. The unfortunate incident took place in the 200 block of Oak Ridge Lane.

Additional Charges

Besides the murder charge, Smith is also implicated in an attempted murder case. This involves another man who was discovered injured within a detached garage adjacent to the home that was aflame. The injured man suffered serious wounds from being struck by an edged object, as investigators deduced from the scene.

Search for Another Suspect Continues

The Lexington County Sheriff’s Department is also on the lookout for another suspect related to the case. 33-year-old Ryan Holman has been named in potential charges connected with the distressing event. However, his whereabouts remain unknown, leading to an ongoing pursuit by the authorities.

Statements from the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department

The Sheriff’s Department has provided further insights into the case. According to the release, detectives, as part of their investigation, concluded that Smith had indeed stabbed Mr. Motley to death. The evidence at the scene, as well as victim and witness interviews and electronic data analyses, lead authorities to believe Smith was present at the Oak Ridge Lane house moments before the inaugural 911 call.

Thorough Investigation

This grim incident has led to an intensive and thorough investigation. Witness cooperation, investigative fieldwork, and information technology have played essential roles in connecting the dots. The residents of Lexington eagerly await further information as the justice system works its course.

In Light of Recent Events

The Lexington community has found this news deeply troubling. Public safety remains an ongoing concern as the local community deals with this tragic event. As such, Lexington law enforcement continues to tirelessly work to ensure public safety and security in these trying times.


Author: HERE Lexington

HERE Lexington

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