A transgender teenager in South Carolina was tragically killed after going on a date, according to police
The tight-knit community of Laurens, a small city in South Carolina, is reeling from the devastating news of the untimely death of 18-year-old Kierstyn Williamson, who was in the process of transitioning to be a man and was known as Jacob. The teenager had disappeared while on a date with an individual they had met online. Authorities have now confirmed that Williamson’s body has been found, and two suspects have been taken into custody in connection with the killing.
The search for Williamson began on June 30 when the teenager was last seen by family members. On July 4, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office in North Carolina located what is believed to be Williamson’s body after an extensive investigation conducted in collaboration with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation. The suspects, Joshua Newton, 25, and Victoria Smith, 22, have been arrested and face charges related to the crime.
Union County Sheriff Eddie Cathey expressed his condolences to the grieving family and emphasized the ongoing nature of the investigation. While the motive behind Williamson’s killing remains unclear, questions have arisen as to whether their transgender identity played a role. Authorities are working diligently to uncover the truth and have urged anyone with information to come forward.
According to reports, Williamson had been reported missing by their family in Laurens, and it was believed that they had traveled to a residence on Bethpage Lane in Monroe, North Carolina, to meet with Newton. The two had connected on Facebook and had planned to spend time together, possibly visiting Carowinds, an amusement park that straddles the state border.
Tragically, the evening took a horrifying turn, resulting in the loss of Williamson’s life. Authorities have located the crime scene and are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. The discovery of Williamson’s body in Pageland, South Carolina, not far from the suspected crime scene, has only deepened the sense of sorrow and shock within the community.
Friends and family members have been left devastated by this devastating loss. Promise Edwards, a long-term family friend, shared her heartfelt goodbye to Williamson and expressed her grief and disbelief. She revealed that Williamson had been staying with her after facing difficulties with some family members who struggled to accept their transition.
Williamson’s tragic death is a painful reminder of the violence that transgender individuals face in society. This heartbreaking incident joins a list of unprovoked attacks against transgender individuals, highlighting the need for greater understanding, acceptance, and protection for the transgender community.
As the investigation continues, the community in Laurens mourns the loss of a young life filled with promise and potential. The memory of Jacob will forever remain in their hearts as they strive to build a society that embraces diversity, equality, and love for all.