On a tragic Friday in Bennettsville, South Carolina, the life of Brittney Renee Bailey was cut short. The 30-year-old woman was found deceased in her home on April 5, 2024, leaving a community in shock and raising questions about the justice system. Her death was the result of a homicide; she had been shot to death. There were no signs of a forced entry at her residence.
The heartbreaking discovery of Brittney's body was made after her three-year-old son was found wandering alone in the
street. Concerned citizens who came to the child's aid were told by the young boy that his mother was hurt inside their home. When law enforcement officers entered the residence on Cheryl Street, they found Brittney deceased.
The investigation into her death quickly led to a suspect. Colin Sedrick Bruce, 37 years old, was arrested and charged with murder in connection with Brittney's death. The circumstances surrounding the arrest brought to light a disturbing history between Bruce and Bailey. At the time of the alleged murder, Bruce was out on bond for previous charges that involved Brittney. These prior charges included serious offenses such as kidnapping, assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature, and domestic violence of a high and aggravated nature.
The fact that Bruce was not in custody at the time of Brittney's death, despite the severity of the pending charges against him, has sparked concern and criticism within the community. Details from past incidents revealed a pattern of violence, including a report from September 2023 where Bruce allegedly choked Brittney to the point of nearly losing consciousness. In another report from February of the same year, he had reportedly threatened to harm her young child if she contacted the police. Authorities have stated they are reviewing how the prior cases against Bruce were handled.
