News Summary
Authorities in Newberry, South Carolina, have arrested three suspects in the shooting death of 25-year-old Breanna Bates. Keonte Montrez Caughman, IJavion Cheek, and IMaurion Cheek face charges including murder. The tragic incident, which occurred on Charles Street, highlights the ongoing issue of gun violence in the community and the need for vigilance and support for affected families.
Newberry Police Arrest Three Suspects in Fatal Shooting of 25-Year-Old Woman
Newberry, South Carolina – Authorities have arrested three suspects in connection with the tragic shooting death of a 25-year-old woman on Monday afternoon. The suspects, identified as Keonte Montrez Caughman (20), IJavion Cheek (17), and IMaurion Lil’Travis Cheek (19), all from Newberry, face multiple serious charges including murder.
The shooting incident took place around 3:15 p.m. in the 1800 block of Charles Street. Upon responding to a call reporting a shooting, officers discovered the victim, Breanna Bates, suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. Despite emergency medical efforts, Bates was pronounced dead at the scene. The Newberry County Coroner, Laura Kneece, confirmed that Bates died from her injuries.
Details of the Charges
Caughman, IJavion Cheek, and IMaurion Cheek have been charged with murder, three counts of attempted murder, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. These charges highlight the severity of the situation and the ongoing threat posed by gun-related violence in the community. The police chief of Newberry, Kevin Goodman, has indicated that the investigation remains active, suggesting that further arrests could be made as more information becomes available.
Call for Public Assistance
As the investigation progresses, law enforcement officials are urging anyone with additional information related to this homicide to come forward. Authorities have provided contact information for Midlands Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC, as well as the Newberry Police Department, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in solving this case.
Community Impact
This incident has deeply affected the Newberry community and has raised concerns regarding public safety. Fatal shootings like this one prompt urgent discussions about violence and the handling of firearms in the area. Various law enforcement agencies, including the Newberry City Police Department, the Newberry County Coroner’s Office, and the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office, are collaborating on the investigation to ensure justice for the victim and her family.
Background Context
Gun violence has become an increasingly pressing issue in many communities across the United States, sparking debates about gun control measures and the need for comprehensive strategies to mitigate such tragedies. The incident in Newberry underlines the harsh reality that gun-related incidents can occur at any time and affect families and friends in far-reaching ways. The overwhelming need for community support and vigilance is more evident than ever in response to this heartbreaking loss.
As investigations continue, the Newberry community stands in solidarity with the grieving family and friends of Breanna Bates, while also seeking answers and justice in the wake of this terrible event.
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Additional Resources
- WLTX: Breanna Bates Killing
- Wikipedia: Gun Violence in the United States
- WISTV: Newberry County Shooting Arrests
- Google Search: Newberry County shooting
- WJBF: Woman Shot in Aiken County
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Violence
- The State: Newberry Homicide Case
- Google News: Newberry shooting
- Fox Carolina: Newberry County Homicide Charges
- Google Scholar: Gun violence

Author: STAFF HERE NEWBERRY
The NEWBERRY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewberry.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Newberry, Newberry 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 Newberry Opera House performances, Newberry Arts Fest, and the Newberry County Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Newberry County Chamber of Commerce and the Newberry Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and agriculture that power the local economy such as Amick Farms and Newberry Mills. 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.


