Clinton, South Carolina: Two Teenagers Arrested in Connection with Murder of Missing Girl
Authorities in Clinton, South Carolina, have made two arrests in the murder of 18-year-old MyAngel Walker, who was reported missing on December 12. The two suspects, Malachi Pressley and Taylor Kinard, both aged 19, were taken into custody on December 13, and they are currently being held without bond at the Johnson County Detention Center.
Details of the Case
Pressley faces charges of murder and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime. Kinard has been charged as an accessory after the fact. The tragic discovery of Walker’s body occurred on December 12, just one day after she was declared missing. Authorities found her remains inside a vehicle that had been set ablaze on the side of a road in Greenwood County.
Timeline of Events
Walker was last seen on the night of December 11, and her disappearance raised concerns when she failed to show up for her shift at NHC Healthcare in Clinton on December 12. Police began a more in-depth investigation, noting from the start that the situation seemed suspicious. Laurens Police Chief Heath Copeland stated, “It became apparent during the night that we were looking for something a little more than just somebody missing.”
According to police reports, Pressley allegedly shot Walker, and Kinard assisted in the disposal of her body. Clinton Police Chief Michael Addison confirmed that Kinard had knowledge of the crime and played a role in covering it up.
Victim’s Background
Walker’s mother, Sade Woodruff, expressed her grief and anger, revealing that her daughter had been in an on-again-off-again relationship with Pressley prior to her disappearance. Woodruff’s message to others in similar situations is powerful: “Anybody that’s going through any type of domestic dispute, being abused, anything, get away. If you are able, get away.”
Court Proceedings
Both Pressley and Kinard were presented in court on December 14, where they were denied bail. Pressley’s next court appearance is scheduled for January 31, where further proceedings will take place to address the charges against him.
Community Reaction
The local community has been shaken by this violent crime, which serves as a grim reminder of the potential dangers surrounding domestic disputes and relationships among teenagers. Law enforcement agencies continue to urge anyone with information regarding the case or similar situations to come forward to help prevent further tragedies.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities piece together the details of what led to Walker’s death and the role both Pressley and Kinard played in this heartbreaking case.
