Online Dating Meet-Up Ends in Tragedy: Two Arrested in Connection with Death of South Carolina Teen
UNION COUNTY, N.C. — In a devastating turn of events, deputies in Union County, North Carolina have arrested two individuals in connection with the death of an 18-year-old from South Carolina. Kierstyn Williamson, also known as Jacob, went missing after meeting someone through an online dating site.
The investigation into Williamson’s disappearance began on Sunday when family members in Laurens, South Carolina reported him missing. The last contact with Williamson was on the evening of June 30. Union County deputies suspected Williamson was at a residence on Bethphage Lane in Monroe, North Carolina.
Authorities discovered that Williamson had been communicating with a man online and they had planned to meet in person for the first time on Friday night. Joshua Newton allegedly picked up Williamson near the restaurant where the young victim worked and drove him back to his home in Monroe, which was more than two hours away. It is believed that Newton and Williamson had planned to spend time together on a date.
Concerned by Williamson’s lack of contact, family and friends informed Union County deputies, who were told that the missing teen might be with Newton at his residence. Unfortunately, this meeting ended tragically, resulting in the loss of Williamson’s life.
After an intense 36-hour investigation, law enforcement officials discovered a body believed to be Williamson’s on Tuesday afternoon. The body was found on the side of Mangum School Road in South Carolina, a few miles from Newton’s home.
Investigators believe that Newton killed Williamson at his residence, with the assistance of his girlfriend, Victoria Smith, in hiding the body. Deputies apprehended Newton and Smith and have classified the case as a homicide investigation. Joshua Newton, 25, is facing charges of first-degree murder and obstruction of justice. Smith, 22, Newton’s live-in girlfriend, has been charged with obstruction of justice and accessory after the fact.
Hannah Goetz from Channel 9 spoke with Williamson’s grieving uncle, Chad Bible, who described his nephew as a trusting individual who couldn’t see the evil in the world. Bible expressed the family’s shock and desperation for answers, questioning why someone would commit such a heinous act and tear their hearts apart.
Sheriff Eddie Cathey expressed his condolences to the victim’s family and praised the dedication of the Union County Sheriff’s Office in bringing the responsible parties to justice.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a reminder for individuals to exercise caution when meeting people online. Detective authorities urged the community to be careful and to report any information they may have about this case to the authorities.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of a young life and hopes for justice for Kierstyn Williamson, whose future was tragically cut short.