In the quiet town of Andrews, South Carolina, a tragic event unfolded on September 30, 2022, claiming the life of 23-year-old Gucciyni Sylve. A Black/African American female, Gucciyni was at her home on Laurie Street with her mother, Natasha Middleton, when the unthinkable occurred. The peaceful setting of their residence was shattered by an act of violence that would leave the community in shock and mourning.
That evening, Franklyn Felder, a 41-year-old man from the nearby town of
Cades, entered the home and opened fire on both women. Natasha Middleton was pronounced dead at the scene, her life abruptly ended. Gucciyni, gravely wounded, was rushed to a nearby hospital. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, she succumbed to her injuries, leaving behind a life full of promise.
The investigation into the double homicide quickly revealed a grim conclusion. After shooting both Gucciyni and her mother, Franklyn Felder turned the gun on himself. He was also transported to the hospital but died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The Andrews Police Department and the Georgetown County Coroner's Office investigated the incident and determined that Felder acted alone in what was classified as a double murder-suicide.
As the community grappled with the senseless loss of two of its members, it was confirmed that there were no other suspects involved in the tragic event. With the perpetrator deceased, the legal chapter of this case closed, though the emotional wounds for the families and community would linger for much longer. The investigation concluded without any further arrests, leaving behind a story of devastating loss.
