On a tragic day in May 2017, the quiet community of Ruffin, South Carolina, was shaken by the violent deaths of Phillip Wayne Miller, Jr., his wife Lori Miller, and their 13-year-old son, Vincent. Phillip, a 46-year-old White male, was known for his sense of humor and his willingness to help anyone in need. He had a passion for fixing electronics, a love for music and sailing, and was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.
The horrific events of May 16, 2017, cut short the lives of three family members and left a young girl wounded, forever altering the lives of those who knew and loved them.
The incident unfolded at the Miller's residence in what authorities would later describe as a robbery gone wrong. Kenneth Mar'Keith Chisolm, an 18-year-old at the time, had gone to the Miller home with the intention of purchasing marijuana from Phillip Miller using counterfeit money. When the deception was discovered, a violent altercation ensued. Chisolm shot and killed Phillip Miller, his 52-year-old wife Lori, and their son Vincent. The couple's 9-year-old granddaughter was also shot in the leg but managed to hide and survive the attack. Her testimony would prove crucial in the investigation that followed.
The investigation led by the Colleton County Sheriff's Office quickly identified Kenneth Chisolm as the primary suspect. He was arrested and faced multiple charges, including three counts of murder. Despite his initial denial of any involvement, evidence presented during his trial painted a clear picture of his guilt. Chisolm was ultimately found guilty of the triple homicide and was sentenced to three life terms in prison without the possibility of parole. Another individual, La Shay Aiken, was identified as the getaway driver for Chisolm. She later pleaded guilty to accessory after the fact to an armed robbery and was sentenced to nine years in prison for her role in the crime. The motive, as revealed during the legal proceedings, was a drug deal that turned deadly over counterfeit currency.
