Clinton SC, September 11, 2025
News Summary
A 23-year-old man has been charged with murder after the decomposed body of a 59-year-old man was discovered in their home in Clinton, SC. The victim, identified as Hector Luis Santos Cartagena, was found during a welfare check prompted by concerned neighbors. The accused, Stephen Kristopher Brown, faces multiple charges, including desecration of human remains and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. The investigation is ongoing, with law enforcement asserting there is no ongoing threat to public safety.
Clinton, SC – Roommate Charged with Murder Following Discovery of Decomposed Body
Authorities in Clinton, South Carolina, have charged a 23-year-old man with murder after the decomposed body of a 59-year-old man was found in their shared residence during a welfare check. The incident occurred on Poplar Street, where neighbors raised concerns after not seeing the victim for over a week.
The Laurens County Coroner’s Office identified the deceased as Hector Luis Santos Cartagena. Following the discovery of the body, the victim’s roommate, Stephen Kristopher Brown, was detained at the scene. Brown has been charged with several serious offenses, including murder, possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime, desecration of human remains, and ill treatment of animals.
Brown was taken to the Johnson Detention Center, where he awaits a bond hearing. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding Cartagena’s death is still actively ongoing. Local law enforcement officials have stated that there is currently no known threat to public safety.
Authorities urge anyone with information relevant to the case to reach out to the Clinton Police Department at (864) 833-7512, or via email at [email protected]. Alternatively, tips can be submitted to Laurens County Crime Stoppers at (864) 68-CRIME.
Background of the Incident
The chain of events leading to the tragic discovery began when neighbors in the neighborhood expressed concern about the prolonged absence of Hector Luis Santos Cartagena. Their report prompted the police to conduct the welfare check, ultimately leading them to the deceased individual inside the home they shared with Stephen Kristopher Brown.
The charges against Brown are severe and reflect the disturbing nature of the case. Murder is defined as unlawfully killing another person with intent, while possession of a weapon during a violent crime signifies the use or threat of a weapon in an act of violence. The desecration of human remains and ill treatment of animals suggest further illicit activities surrounding the deceased.
As the investigation proceeds, officials will likely conduct further inquiries into the relationship between Brown and Cartagena to ascertain the motive behind this tragic incident.
Community Reaction and Next Steps
The news of the murder charge and the discovery of the decomposed body has left the community shaken. Residents are likely reflecting on the safety of their neighborhood following such a violent act. Law enforcement has assured the public that measures are in place to maintain safety and that there is no ongoing threat related to the case.
As the legal proceedings commence, a bond hearing for Brown will allow for further developments in the case. Community members are encouraged to participate in the ongoing investigation by bringing forward any additional information that could assist law enforcement.
FAQ Section
What happened in Clinton, SC?
A welfare check led police to discover the decomposed body of a 59-year-old man, later identified as Hector Luis Santos Cartagena.
Who has been charged?
The victim’s 23-year-old roommate, Stephen Kristopher Brown, has been charged with murder and several other related offenses.
What charges is Stephen Kristopher Brown facing?
Brown is charged with murder, possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime, desecration of human remains, and ill treatment of animals.
Is the public in danger?
Authorities have confirmed that there is no known threat to public safety at this time.
How can I provide information about the case?
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Clinton Police Department or Laurens County Crime Stoppers.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Poplar Street, Clinton, SC |
| Victim | Hector Luis Santos Cartagena, 59 years old |
| Suspect | Stephen Kristopher Brown, 23 years old |
| Charges | Murder, possession of a weapon, desecration of remains, ill treatment of animals |
| Current Status | Awaiting bond hearing at Johnson Detention Center |
| Investigation Status | Active; no known threat to public |
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Additional Resources
- WYFF4: Clinton Roommate Murder Charge
- Wikipedia: Murder
- GoLaurens: Clinton Women’s Boutique Burglary
- Google Search: Hector Luis Santos Cartagena
- Fox Carolina: Gunshot Victim Found
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Violent Crime
- WSPA: Teen Arrested in Fatal Shooting
- Google News: Clinton SC Murder
- GoLaurens: Clinton Police Investigate Murder
Author: STAFF HERE CLINTON
The CLINTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREClinton.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Clinton, Laurens County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Discovery, Clinton Community Day, and performances at the Whitten Center Amphitheater. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce and the Laurens County Historical Society, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and education that power the local economy such as Milliken & Company and Presbyterian College. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
