News Summary
In Newberry, South Carolina, three young men have been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of 25-year-old Breanna Bates. The incident occurred at approximately 3:15 p.m. on Charles Street, leading to Bates’ later death from her injuries. The suspects face serious charges including murder and attempted murder. Authorities have stated that Bates was not the intended target, and they are urging anyone with information to come forward as they continue their investigation.
Newberry, South Carolina – Three Young Men Arrested in Connection with Fatal Shooting
A shooting incident in Newberry, South Carolina, has resulted in the charging of three young men for the death of 25-year-old Breanna Bates. The shooting occurred on December 5 at approximately 3:15 p.m. in the 1800 block of Charles Street, prompting a response from the Newberry Police Department to multiple reports of gunfire.
Officers arrived at the scene to find Bates suffering from a gunshot wound. Following an autopsy conducted by the Newberry County Coroner Laura Kneece, it was confirmed that Bates succumbed to her injuries. The police have since arrested three suspects linked to her death: Keonte Montrez Caughman, 20; IJavion Cheek, 17; and IMaurion Lil’Travis Cheek, 19.
All three suspects face serious charges including murder, three counts of attempted murder, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. The two teenagers, IJavion Cheek and IMaurion Lil’Travis Cheek, have been denied bond. Details regarding Caughman’s bond status are currently not provided, though he is confirmed to be listed on the jail’s inmate roster.
Details of the Incident
According to Newberry Police Chief Kevin Goodman, Bates was not the intended target of the shooting. As the investigation continues, a motive for the shooting has yet to be established. Authorities are actively pursuing leads and have indicated that further arrests may be forthcoming as they gather more information about the case.
The investigation involves collaboration between the Newberry Police Department, the Newberry County Coroner’s Office, and the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office to ensure thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Call for Information
In light of the circumstances, authorities are urging anyone who may have additional information regarding the shooting to come forward. Community members are encouraged to contact the Newberry Police Department at 803-321-1010 or CrimeStoppers at 888-CRIME-SC.
Background Context
This unfortunate incident has shaken the local community, highlighting issues related to violence and gun safety. Breanna Bates, a resident of Newberry, is remembered as a young woman whose life was tragically cut short, underscoring the risks posed by gun-related violence. Law enforcement officials are committed to uncovering the full details of the case and ensuring that justice is served.
As the situation develops, updates regarding the ongoing investigation and court proceedings are expected to be released to the public. The community remains on alert while police work meticulously to piece together the events that led to this tragic loss of life.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragedy Strikes Memorial Day Boat Party in Little River
Highway 391 Reopens After Water Main Rupture in Newberry County
Tragic Shooting Shakes Little River Community
Former Police Chief Escapes from Arkansas Prison
Remembering George Floyd: A Reflection on Struggles and Progress
Mass Shooting in Myrtle Beach Leaves One Dead and Eleven Injured
Tragic Mass Shooting in Myrtle Beach Leaves One Dead
Community Grieves After Shooting of Local Mother
Incident at Haywood Mall Causes Lockdown and Panic
Newberry Police Department Arrests Suspects in Homicide Case
Additional Resources
- WIS TV: Three Arrested in Newberry County Shooting
- Wikipedia: Newberry, South Carolina
- WLTX: Breanna Bates Killing in Newberry
- Google Search: Newberry County Shooting
- The State: Newberry County Shooting Incident
- Google Scholar: Gun Violence in South Carolina
- Fox Carolina: Newberry Co Homicide Charges
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Safety
- WACH: Authorities Investigate Murder in Newberry
- Google News: Newberry County Homicide

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.


