Harleyville Community Mourns Loss of Young Resident as Dorchester County Authorities Confirm Homicide Victim’s Identity
HARLEYVILLE, South Carolina — Dorchester County authorities have confirmed the identity of a homicide victim discovered along White House Pond Road on Sunday, August 3, 2025. Officials have identified the victim as 18-year-old Antwon Javice Carmichael, a resident of Orangeburg County. The case remains under active investigation as law enforcement works to determine the circumstances surrounding his death.
According to the Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched to the rural roadway after receiving reports of an unresponsive individual. Upon arrival, officers secured the area and called in investigators from the Dorchester County Coroner’s Office, who later confirmed Carmichael’s identity. The location was treated as an active crime scene for several hours while evidence was collected.
Detectives have not released details regarding possible suspects or motives. Authorities stated that additional information will be shared once it will not compromise the investigation. The Sheriff’s Office emphasized that they are following multiple leads and reviewing potential connections to other recent incidents in the region.
Residents in Harleyville expressed deep concern over the discovery, noting that the small community is typically quiet and close-knit. Many said they were shocked that such a violent act could take place in their area. Local leaders have called for unity and cooperation with law enforcement as the search for answers continues.
Friends and family of Carmichael have described him as a young man with dreams and aspirations for his future. Social media tributes have poured in, sharing memories of his sense of humor, kindness, and loyalty to those he cared about. Loved ones say his absence leaves a lasting void in their lives.
Investigators spent much of the day combing the area where Carmichael was found, photographing the scene, collecting physical evidence, and searching for any witnesses who might have been in the vicinity at the time of the incident. Officers are also seeking surveillance footage from nearby properties and businesses to aid in the case.
The Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office is working closely with other agencies, including the Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office, to gather information. Authorities are urging anyone with knowledge of Carmichael’s last known whereabouts or any suspicious activity in the area to come forward. Anonymous tips are being accepted through Crime Stoppers.
Community members have begun organizing a candlelight vigil in Carmichael’s memory, aiming to honor his life and offer support to his grieving family. Organizers say the event will also serve as a reminder of the need for peace and safety in local neighborhoods.
Officials have acknowledged the heightened concern over violence affecting young people in the region. They stress that open communication between residents and law enforcement is critical to solving cases and preventing further tragedies.
As the investigation moves forward, the Harleyville and Orangeburg County communities remain united in their grief and determination to seek justice for Antwon Javice Carmichael. His loss has left an indelible mark on those who knew him and serves as a solemn call for change.
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