On a tragic day in March 2024, the lives of two individuals were violently cut short in Cordova, South Carolina. James Christopher Robinson Jr., a 23-year-old male, was found deceased alongside 32-year-old Kayla Bonita Beason. The initial investigation by the Orangeburg County Sheriff's Office quickly determined that both Robinson and Beason had been the victims of a double homicide.
As the investigation progressed, details emerged suggesting a grim backstory of stalking.
Authorities identified Richard Haynes of Cordova as a suspect in the murders. It was discovered that Haynes had been stalking Beason, a co-worker, and had placed a tracking device on her vehicle. Investigators believe that on the morning of the incident, Haynes broke into Beason's home, where he then shot and killed both her and Robinson.
The diligent work of several law enforcement agencies, including the U.S. Marshal's Office, led to the apprehension of Haynes at a hotel in Myrtle Beach. He was subsequently arrested and faced a multitude of charges, including two counts of murder, stalking, and burglary. During a search of Haynes's belongings, authorities found the packaging for the tracking devices, which ironically contributed to the evidence leading to his arrest. The Orangeburg County Sheriff expressed his disgust that the suspect, after committing such a heinous act, had gone to 'lay up on the beach.' While one arrest has been made, the investigation remains ongoing to determine if any other individuals aided Haynes in his efforts to pursue Beason.
