News Summary
Authorities in Newberry have arrested three individuals linked to a recent homicide involving the shooting of 25-year-old Breanna Bates. Police responded to reports of gunfire at Charles Street and found Bates with serious injuries. The arrested suspects, aged between 17 and 20, face multiple charges including murder and attempted murder. This incident has heightened community concerns about gun violence, prompting discussions on safety measures and youth engagement. Law enforcement continues to seek public assistance in their ongoing investigation.
Newberry, SC – The Newberry Police Department has arrested three individuals connected to a homicide that occurred on May 19, 2025. Following a report of gunfire at approximately 3:15 p.m., officers responded to the 1800 block of Charles Street where they discovered a female victim who had been shot. The victim has been identified as 25-year-old Breanna Bates, a resident of Newberry. According to Newberry County Coroner Laura Kneece, Bates succumbed to her injuries from the gunshot wounds.
The suspects arrested in connection to the case are Keonte Montrez Caughman, 20, Ijavion Cheek, 17, and IMaurion Lil’Travis Cheek, 19, all from Newberry. Each has been charged with murder, three counts of attempted murder, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. This incident marks a serious escalation in violence in the Newberry community.
Police Chief Kevin Goodman has indicated that the investigation remains active, and authorities believe that further arrests may be made as the case evolves. The investigation is a collaborative effort involving the Newberry City Police Department, the Newberry County Coroner’s Office, and the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office.
Law enforcement officials are urging anyone who may have information related to the homicide or the events leading up to it to step forward. They can contact Midlands Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC or the Newberry Police Department directly at 803-321-1010.
This tragic incident has shaken the small community of Newberry, where residents are now more alert to the dangers of gun violence. There is a growing concern about safety and security, especially for young individuals in the area. The police have reassured the public that they are taking the necessary steps to address the issue and prevent further incidents of this nature.
Gun-related crimes have been a pressing issue in various communities across the United States, and this incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in controlling and preventing violent crime. Authorities highlight the importance of community involvement in these investigations. Public tips and information can significantly aid law enforcement in resolving open cases, as seen in similar investigations across the nation.
Newberry residents are left to grapple with the ramifications of this violent act. Community leaders and residents alike are expected to come together in the coming days to discuss measures to enhance safety and prevent such occurrences in the future. Discussions around community programs aimed at engaging youth and providing alternatives to violence are anticipated to occur as Newberry continues to seek solutions to combat crime effectively.
The investigation into Breanna Bates’s death is not just a matter of resolving a crime; it is focused on ensuring justice for her family and addressing the broader societal issues related to gun violence that affect communities everywhere.
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Additional Resources
- WLTX
- WISTV
- ABC Columbia
- Fox Carolina
- WISTV
- Wikipedia: Gun violence in the United States
- Google Search: Newberry SC crime
- Google Scholar: Gun violence
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun violence
- Google News: Newberry SC 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.
