June 27, 2025

Murder Investigation Launched in Clinton Following Body Discovery

News Summary

A murder investigation is underway in Clinton after authorities discovered the body of 59-year-old Hector Luis Santos Cartagena during a welfare check. Police were alerted when neighbors noticed an occupant missing for over a week. The victim’s roommate, Stephen Kristopher Brown, has been detained and charged with murder and related offenses. The investigation is active, with no immediate threat to the public. Residents are urged to report any information as the community grapples with rising concerns about safety.

Clinton – A murder investigation is underway following the discovery of a deceased individual during a welfare check on Wednesday at a residence on Popular Street. Officers from the Clinton Police Department were summoned to the location after neighbors reported that they had not seen an occupant for over a week. Upon their arrival, authorities found the body of 59-year-old Hector Luis Santos Cartagena inside the home.

The Clark County Coroner, Patti Canupp, confirmed that the deceased individual is Cartagena, a long-time resident of Clinton. Authorities have since detained the victim’s roommate, identified as 23-year-old Stephen Kristopher Brown, at the scene. Following further investigation, law enforcement has charged Brown with multiple offenses including murder, possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime, desecration of human remains, and ill treatment of animals.

Brown has been transported to the Johnson Detention Center, where he is waiting for a bond hearing. The investigation into Cartagena’s murder is currently active, and law enforcement officials have stated that there is no known threat to the public at this time.

Authorities are urging anyone with information related to this case to reach out to the Clinton Police Department. They can be contacted at 864-833-7512 or through email at cpdtips@cityofclintonsc.com. Additionally, individuals can reach out to Laurens County Crime Stoppers at 864-68-CRIME for anonymous tips.

This incident marks a serious concern for the local community, as the nature of the crime has raised anxieties among residents regarding safety and security. Clinton, a small city known for its close-knit community, has seen a surge in violent crime recently, prompting an increased response from law enforcement in addressing public safety issues.

The murder of Hector Luis Santos Cartagena brings attention to ongoing violence that affects many urban areas. Residents of Clinton are encouraged to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities to local authorities to help ensure the safety of their neighborhoods.

As this story develops, more information will likely emerge, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding Cartagena’s death and the investigation’s findings. The community remains on high alert as law enforcement works to provide answers while emphasizing that cooperation and awareness are paramount in combating crime.

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Author: STAFF HERE CLINTON

CLINTON STAFF WRITER 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.