On a summer evening in Cross, South Carolina, the life of 61-year-old Lori Jean Gentile, a white female, came to a tragic and violent end. On June 28, 2020, authorities responded to what was initially believed to be a motor vehicle accident on Poplar Hill Drive. Upon their arrival, they discovered a grim scene. Gentile and another woman, 25-year-old Lashawn Gadson, were found with fatal gunshot wounds, turning a supposed accident investigation into a double homicide case.
Gentile, a resident of Mount Pleasant, was known for her adventurous and fun-loving spirit. She was a mother and grandmother who was remembered for her kindness and the joy she brought to those around her.
The investigation into the deaths of the two women led the Berkeley County Sheriff's Office to identify a suspect in the killings. Damayjhon Quintez Gadson, a 19-year-old from Utahville, was named as the person responsible for the deaths of Lori Jean Gentile and Lashawn Gadson. Authorities launched a manhunt for him, warning the public that he was considered armed and dangerous. It was clarified that despite sharing the same last name, the suspect was not related to Lashawn Gadson. Investigators believed that Lashawn and the suspect had arranged to meet, and Gentile had provided transportation for her friend.
During the subsequent trial, prosecutors laid out their case against Damayjhon Gadson, presenting evidence that they believed connected him to the murders. This included DNA evidence found in the vehicle where the women were discovered, as well as photographs from the suspect's phone that appeared to show a gun matching the type used in the killings. Phone records were also introduced, suggesting communication and a planned meeting between the suspect and Lashawn Gadson on the night of the murders. However, the prosecution's case faced challenges, a notable one being the lack of fingerprints on the shell casings that were recovered from the crime scene.
Damayjhon Gadson pleaded not guilty to two counts of murder and a charge of possession of a weapon during a violent crime. After the presentation of evidence and deliberations, the jury was unable to come to a unanimous decision on the charges against him. This resulted in the judge declaring a mistrial in October of 2024. The case remains unresolved, leaving the families of Lori Jean Gentile and Lashawn Gadson still awaiting a final legal outcome and a sense of justice for their loved ones.
