Tragic Turn of Events in Newberry County as Four Arrested in Violent Incident

Tragic Turn of Events in Newberry County as Four Arrested in Violent Incident

NEWBERRY COUNTY, S.C. — It was a quiet Thursday afternoon on December 5, 2024, when the peaceful atmosphere of Green Meadows Drive was shattered by a horrific incident that left one person dead and another seriously injured. In the days that followed, local law enforcement sprang into action, leading to the arrest of four individuals connected to this tragedy.

The Arrests and Charges

Authorities apprehended Glazariq Diaz Garcia, 20, and Matthew Neal Epps, 24, during an operation on Folk Road in Newberry on the afternoon of December 6. Their arrests were closely followed by that of Austin Adam George Stanley, also 20 years old, who was taken into custody in Myrtle Beach that same night. Danny Isaiah Gray, 24, from Whitmire, was also arrested soon after on Mill Street in Whitmire.

All four men face serious charges, including murder, attempted murder, possession of a weapon during a violent crime, burglary, kidnapping, and conspiracy. Meanwhile, two additional individuals, Parrish Jeral McWatters, 34, and Stephanie Heather Mayer, 28, were also arrested for allegedly harboring Gray. Law enforcement found Gray hiding under a pile of clothes when they arrived at the residence where he was believed to be.

The Sequence of Events

According to the investigation, Garcia was the first to enter the residence on Green Meadows Drive, taking control of the situation. Shortly after, his alleged accomplices—Epps, Stanley, and Gray—arrived wearing ski masks and forced their way into the home. Once inside, they began assaulting the occupants, aiming to rob them. Tragically, during this assault, Kier Leon Marsh, the home guest, was fatally wounded, while the property owner was also injured and had to be rushed to a trauma center.

It appears that the robbery was intended, but it’s believed that nothing was actually stolen during this violent encounter, leaving many baffled and saddened by the senselessness of the crime.

Community Reaction

Newberry County Sheriff Lee Foster described the incident as a “senseless act of violence.” He expressed his condolences, noting the profound impact this crime has had on the lives affected. “One person is dead, another is grievously injured, and six individuals have had their lives altered for absolutely nothing,” Foster stated, emphasizing the heavy toll this tragedy has taken on the community.

During the search for Gray, a Newberry County deputy suffered injuries after being bitten by a pit bull, adding another layer of complexity to the already alarming situation. Additionally, law enforcement found three minor children in the home where Gray was hiding, leading to further charges against McWatters and Mayer for hindering law enforcement and unlawful neglect of a child.

A Community in Shock

The tragic event has left many residents of Newberry County in disbelief. People are saying that it’s hard to comprehend how such violence could happen in their community. Neighbors express their sadness and concern, hoping to find ways to support each other during these tough times.

As investigations continue, the community is left wondering what could have prevented this tragedy, and how they can move forward. With so many lives intertwined in such a sad story, it’s a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of safety in every community.

Looking Ahead

As events unfold, locals are encouraged to reach out for support and stay vigilant. Community gatherings and discussions may soon be organized to promote healing and unity in the face of this heartbreaking incident.