Clinton, SC, August 17, 2025
News Summary
The community of Clinton, South Carolina, is rallying for justice following the unsolved murders of local teens Zarius Hurley and Kaden Moses. Both boys were cherished athletes, and their tragic deaths have left families and residents desperate for answers. The investigations into their cases have faced criticism, particularly towards local law enforcement and the decisions made by legal authorities. Community members are demanding accountability and pursuing efforts to raise awareness about these heartbreaking incidents.
Clinton, SC – The small community of Clinton, South Carolina, is demanding justice in the unsolved murders of local teens Zarius “Zay” Hurley, aged 17, and Kaden Moses, aged 14. Both boys were promising young athletes from Clinton High School, and their tragic deaths have left families and community members searching for answers.
Zay Hurley was gunned down on April 4, 2024, during an intense standoff. A 24-year-old suspect, Elliot Brown, was arrested in connection with the shooting but was released on bond shortly after. The Hurley family has taken a proactive stance by offering a reward of $1,000 for any information that could lead to an arrest and conviction in Zay’s case, which remains unresolved.
In a separate but equally tragic incident, Kaden Moses was shot and killed on December 30, 2023. The Laurens County Coroner ruled his death a homicide after he was struck in the head by a .243 bolt-action rifle while playing video games at home. Kaden was reportedly engaged in a call with his girlfriend at the time, who heard him utter part of a sentence before the sound of gunfire silenced him. Witness accounts raise concerns as a friend named “Henry,” who was present during the shooting, allegedly altered his clothing and remained silent during questioning, invoking his Fifth Amendment rights. This friend has not yet undergone testing for gunshot residue. Eyewitnesses have also reported concerning statements made by Henry, including an admission that his fingerprints were on the bullet before he fled the scene in a vehicle.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) closed Kaden’s investigation midway through 2024, and Solicitor David Stumbo chose not to pursue charges against Henry, despite evidence suggesting he may have fired the weapon. This decision has spurred backlash from community members who are increasingly frustrated with the legal system and its handling of these sensitive cases. Moreover, KJ Adams, another former Clinton High School student, died under suspicious circumstances on November 29, 2023, further intensifying fears over public safety in the area.
Critics are targeting Solicitor Stumbo for his management of these investigations, particularly given his current campaign for the South Carolina Attorney General position. Community concerns have expanded to include the perceived ineffectiveness of local law enforcement agencies, particularly in light of a rising murder rate potentially linked to the state’s new open carry law.
In response to the financial burden incurred by Kaden’s murder, a GoFundMe page has been established to assist his family with funeral expenses and legal representation. The Moses family has expressed their unwavering determination to seek justice for Kaden and has highlighted the necessity for accountability surrounding his death.
In an effort to generate more information and promote awareness around the unsolved cases of Zay and Kaden, affiliated organizations such as Crime and Cask News are actively investigating and calling for tips from the public.
The Clinton community has come together, rallying for justice for their young athletes. They insist that the pursuit of truth and the need for accountability must prevail in light of these tragic incidents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Zay Hurley?
Zay Hurley was murdered on April 4, 2024, during a standoff. A suspect was arrested but later released on bond.
How did Kaden Moses die?
Kaden Moses was shot in the head on December 30, 2023, while playing video games at home. His death has been ruled a homicide.
What actions are being taken by the families of the victims?
The Hurley family is offering a reward for information leading to an arrest in Zay’s case. The Moses family is seeking legal representation and community support through fundraising efforts.
Are there concerns regarding law enforcement’s handling of the investigations?
Yes, community members are expressing frustration regarding the effectiveness of local law enforcement and the decisions made by Solicitor Stumbo in these cases.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Zay Hurley | Kaden Moses |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 17 | 14 |
| Date of incident | April 4, 2024 | December 30, 2023 |
| Cause of death | Gunshot, unresolved | Gunshot, ruled homicide |
| Suspects | Elliot Brown (arrested, released) | Henry (not charged) |
| Community response | Reward offered for information | Fundraising for legal support |
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Additional Resources
- Crime and Cask: Unsolved Murders of Teens in Clinton, SC
- Fox News: Alleged Devil’s Den Killer Investigated
- My Clinton News: The Death of Accountability
- Fits News: Seeking Justice for Kaden Moses
- People: Teens Arrested After Missing 18-Year-Old Found Dead
- Wikipedia: Unsolved Murder
- Google Search: Clinton SC Teen Murder
- Google Scholar: Teen Murder Clinton South Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Unsolved Murder
- Google News: Clinton SC 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.
