In the spring of 2019, the life of a young man, Anthony McNeil, was cut tragically short in a violent encounter in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. McNeil, a 23-year-old Black / African American male, was fatally shot on the night of April 2, 2019. The incident unfolded at a residence on Dunbar Street, where McNeil was involved in a shooting that also left another individual injured.
Both victims were rushed to Grand Strand Hospital, but McNeil ultimately succumbed to his injuries at approximately 10:04 PM.
The investigation into McNeil's death, conducted by the Myrtle Beach Police Department's gang unit, quickly identified a suspect. Joerael Bratten, a 29-year-old from Myrtle Beach, was implicated in the crime. According to the investigation, Bratten had gone to McNeil's home with the intention of buying marijuana. However, the situation escalated into a robbery, during which Bratten shot McNeil four times before escaping the scene.
Three days after the shooting, authorities apprehended Bratten at a bus stop in Florence, South Carolina, as he was reportedly attempting to flee to Connecticut. In the ensuing legal proceedings, Bratten pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter and one count of attempted murder. His conviction resulted in a 25-year prison sentence, with the stipulation that he must serve at least 85% of his term.
Two other individuals were also held accountable for their roles in the events surrounding McNeil's death. Walter Cuttino, 28, of Georgetown, pleaded guilty to being an accessory after the fact to murder. He received a sentence of 15 months in prison, which was suspended in favor of five years of probation. Additionally, Shamia Maness faced charges for her involvement and pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice. She was sentenced to one year of incarceration, which was suspended to 63 days with credit for time already served.
