Kathryn 'Katie' Davis Skeen, a 36-year-old White female, was tragically killed on August 21, 2017, during a violent bank robbery in Conway, South Carolina. Skeen was the branch manager at CresCom Bank and was at her desk when the assailant entered the building. She was a beloved member of her community, known for her dedication to her family, faith, and work.
Actively involved in her church, Advancing The Kingdom Church, she was also passionate about helping troubled teens.
The perpetrator, Brandon Michael Council, entered the bank with the intention to rob it and murder any employees present. Shortly after entering, Council shot and killed bank teller Donna Major. He then proceeded to Skeen's office, where he shot her multiple times as she sought shelter under her desk. After taking over $15,000 in cash, Council fled the scene in Skeen's vehicle.
Council was apprehended in Greenville, North Carolina, following a brief foot chase. He confessed to the murders and the robbery, stating he was desperate for money and knew he was going to shoot someone. He was found guilty of the murders of both Kathryn Skeen and Donna Major and was sentenced to death. He is currently on federal death row. The families of both victims have since filed a civil lawsuit against the bank and its security providers.