On a Friday night in Conway, South Carolina, a disagreement at a local establishment turned fatal, ending the life of Lester Goldsmith. The 41-year-old man, affectionately known to friends as 'Little Man,' was working at Rascal's Bar and Grill on August 15, 2025, when the incident occurred. What began as a dispute between bar staff and three patrons escalated, culminating in gunfire in the parking lot just before 10 p.m.
Goldsmith was struck by the bullets and rushed to Conway Medical Center, where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries.
Those who knew Lester Goldsmith remember him as a kind and protective person, often described as a 'gentle giant' and a 'big teddy bear' who was not confrontational. He was an employee at the bar, and according to friends, he had gone outside to handle the situation when he was shot. The news of his violent death sent shockwaves through the community, with friends and family expressing disbelief that anyone would want to harm him. He was remembered as an all-around great guy who loved everybody and enjoyed spending his time on the river, playing pool, and being with his friends and family.
In the wake of the shooting, law enforcement officials launched an investigation that quickly led to the apprehension of three suspects. Irving Oswaldo Gonzalez Centeno, 26, was identified as the alleged shooter and has been charged with murder. Authorities have indicated that Gonzalez Centeno may be in the United States illegally, and an immigration hold has been placed on him while he remains in custody without bail. Two other men, 38-year-old Herman Sanchez Herrera and 26-year-old Marcos Gutierrez-Vazquez, were also arrested in connection with the incident. They both face charges of public disorderly conduct and have since been released on bond. Investigators believe there was no prior relationship between Goldsmith and the suspects.
