In the quiet community of Friendship, South Carolina, near Barnwell, a family altercation on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, shattered the peace and ended in tragedy. On that day, 31-year-old Matthew Shane Baxley, a White/Caucasian male, was found deceased at a residence on Highway 64. The Barnwell County Sheriff's Office responded to reports of a shooting and discovered Baxley with fatal injuries.
The investigation revealed a complex and violent series of events involving a double
shooting. Another individual, Harvey Joyner, was also shot during the incident, suffering a gunshot wound to the face. He was treated at the Barnwell City Fire Department before being transported to a hospital for further care. In connection with the shootings, authorities arrested Matthew Baxley's mother, 49-year-old Julie Baxley. She was subsequently charged with Possession of a Weapon During a Violent Crime and Attempted Murder for the shooting of Joyner.
According to arrest affidavits, the tragic events unfolded during an altercation between Harvey Joyner and Matthew Baxley. The documents allege that Julie Baxley shot Harvey Joyner with a. 380 handgun during this confrontation. It is further stated that Harvey Joyner shot Matthew Baxley in self-defense. Following her arrest, Julie Baxley was denied bond at a hearing on September 18. The investigation into the incident remains ongoing.
Matthew Shane Baxley, born in Barnwell on July 10, 1993, was remembered for his gentle nature, bright blue eyes, and for giving the best hugs. He was a father to three daughters and was survived by his parents, grandmother, and sister. His diverse employment history included working as a butcher, a cook at Huddle House, and a role at IGA. In his leisure time, he found joy in hunting, fishing, cooking, and grilling. Funeral services were held on September 23, 2024, with his burial in the Mt. Lebanon Christian Church Cemetery.
