John Phillip Chitwood, a 27-year-old male, tragically lost his life on April 24, 2014, in Central, South Carolina, following a dispute that escalated to fatal violence. The incident unfolded on Moser Street after a verbal confrontation between Chitwood and another man, Benjamin Anthony Vinson.
Following the initial argument, Vinson departed from the residence only to return a short time later. Upon his return, he retrieved a shotgun from the trunk of his vehicle.
Another verbal exchange ensued between Vinson and Chitwood in the front yard. During this second confrontation, Vinson fired the shotgun, striking Chitwood in the lower abdomen.
Emergency services were called to the scene, and deputies discovered Chitwood with a severe gunshot wound. He was quickly transported to AnMed Health Medical Center for emergency surgery. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, John Phillip Chitwood succumbed to his injuries and passed away.
Authorities promptly arrested Benjamin Anthony Vinson in connection with the shooting. He was initially charged with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. Vinson's legal team attempted to have the case dismissed under South Carolina's 'Stand Your Ground' law, but this effort was denied by a circuit court judge. In December 2015, Vinson pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter. He was sentenced to seven and a half years in prison. He received credit for the 20 months he had already served since his arrest.
