Tragic Turn: Murder Charges Filed in Coastal Carolina University Student’s Death
MYRTLE BEACH – For the Coastal Carolina University community and residents of Carolina Forest, the echoes of a tragic incident from last year have resurfaced with the recent news of murder charges against a suspect. In a somber turn of events, authorities have charged Branden Huertas, a 43-year-old man from Bridgeport, Connecticut, with the murder of 20-year-old David Roldan-Dimas.
The chilling incident took place on the evening of June 19, 2023, outside a local Planet Fitness on Glenforest Road. Roldan-Dimas, a junior at Coastal Carolina, was discovered unresponsive in the driver’s seat of his black Chevy Camaro, which had crashed into a parked Nissan SUV. What was initially a traffic collision turned into a murder scene as police found gunshot wounds on the young student when they arrived on the scene.
When officers reached the location, they attempted CPR on Roldan-Dimas, but it was to no avail. By the time Emergency Medical Services (EMS) arrived, it was clear that he had succumbed to his injuries. Reacting swiftly, Horry County Police quickly identified two suspects in connection with the shooting, placing their names into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database as wanted individuals.
Arrests and Extradition
Fast forward to November 21, 2024, Huertas was booked at the J. Reuben Long Detention Center near Conway after a lengthy wait. He and the other unnamed suspect had been arrested earlier in February on unrelated charges in Connecticut but had not yet faced the murder allegations in South Carolina.
Liz Moskov, the spokeswoman for Horry County Police Department, explained that while Huertas faced charges in Connecticut, he was flagged as a suspect in Roldan-Dimas’ murder. The journey to bring Huertas back to Horry County has been methodical, reflecting the gravity of the situation. As for the second suspect, details remain sparse as police are still navigating the extradition process, which could prolong their return to face justice.
Community in Mourning
Roldan-Dimas, originally from York, was more than just a student; he was a vibrant young man with dreams and aspirations cut short far too soon. His family and friends have been grappling with the heartache of losing someone so full of life. The tragic circumstances surrounding his death have left a palpable void in the hearts of many in the Myrtle Beach and Coastal Carolina communities.
While little information has been disclosed about the specifics leading up to the shooting, the impact of this tragedy reverberates through the community. Fellow students, faculty, and residents are left questioning how such violence can occur in their serene environment.
A Call for Justice
As the legal proceedings continue, the community watches closely. Advocates and family members hope justice will be served, while law enforcement works diligently to ensure that all those involved are held accountable for their actions. The frustration and grief felt by so many highlight a growing concern regarding safety and crime in the area, emphasizing the need for both community and law enforcement to come together to foster a safer environment for everyone.
As new developments emerge, the story of David Roldan-Dimas serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of community support in times of tragedy. Our hearts remain with his family, friends, and all who are impacted by this senseless violence.
With the days getting colder (the weather forecast suggests a low of 32°F), it may be a good time for everyone to come together, reflect, and work towards ensuring that such tragedies do not happen again.
