In the early morning hours of December 5, 2020, the life of 26-year-old Eliajah LaMont Samuel, a Black male from Conway, South Carolina, was tragically cut short. The fatal incident unfolded at the Canterbury Apartments in the Carolina Forest area of Myrtle Beach. Responding to reports of a shooting at approximately 4:45 a.m., Horry County police discovered Samuel with gunshot wounds.
He was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Initial reports from law enforcement indicated they were searching for a suspect seen fleeing the scene in surveillance footage. At the time, no arrests had been made, and the police appealed to the public for assistance in identifying the individual. Samuel, who was described by his family as a great father who was always smiling and willing to help others, did not reside at the apartment complex. He had aspirations of opening his own business selling televisions and was known for his handyman skills.
Later information suggested that an investigation identified the shooter as the ex-boyfriend of a friend of Samuel's. According to one source, a suspect was arrested in connection with the shooting but was subsequently released from jail. The circumstances surrounding the suspect's release have not been publicly detailed. The case has left Samuel's family and friends devastated as they continue to seek justice. The investigation into Eliajah LaMont Samuel's death is considered ongoing.
