News Summary
Nearly 27 years later, South Carolina authorities are still seeking justice for the tragic double shooting that occurred at Club Maliks on September 18, 1998. Two young men, William Halyard and Jonathan Simpkins, lost their lives that night, leaving a lasting impact on their families and the community. The investigation remains open, with law enforcement urging anyone with information to come forward to help solve this cold case.
South Carolina Authorities Revisit Heartbreaking 1998 Double Shooting Case
ORANGEBURG, South Carolina – It’s hard to believe that nearly 27 years have passed since a tragic shooting incident rocked the peaceful community of Orangeburg. On September 18, 1998, a typical night at Club Maliks turned devastating when a peaceful evening spiraled into chaos. An altercation started inside the club, eventually spilling into the parking lot where gunfire erupted, leaving two young lives lost and more forever changed.
Who were the Victims?
The victims of that fateful night were identified as William Halyard, 23, and Jonathan Simpkins, 21, according to the Orangeburg County Coroner’s Office. Both young men had their whole lives ahead of them, dreams to chase, and goals to achieve. Instead, their futures were tragically cut short, leaving a profound impact on their families and friends.
The Aftermath and Ongoing Investigation
In the wake of the shooting, the Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office sought the expertise of the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) to help investigate the case. Fast forward nearly three decades, and the investigation remains open, with authorities urging anyone with clues or information to come forward. Justice may not have been served yet, but the hope still lingers that someone out there possesses crucial information that could unlock this long-standing mystery.
A Family’s Pain
The sorrow in the Halyard and Simpkins families runs deep. For Chelsea Halyard, the daughter of William, the pain of losing her father was painful enough, but the ongoing absence of important parental milestones feels even more profound. Birthdays, graduations, and other milestones are reminders of what could have been. Chelsea’s story is just one emotional piece of this complicated puzzle, illustrating the enduring grief such senseless violence brings.
Honoring Dreams
In response to Jonathan Simpkins’ passing, his family established the Jo-Nathan Foundation, dedicated to supporting underprivileged and at-risk youth in the community. This noble effort reflects Jonathan’s aspirations and aims to address some of the deep-seated challenges facing today’s young people. It stands as a testament to his legacy and a reminder that even in tragedy, positive change can grow.
Seeking New Leads
As SLED continues its inquiry into this heartbreaking cold case, local authorities are reaching out to the public for help. There is a glimmer of hope that someone might have pertinent information that could finally lead to justice for William and Jonathan. No detail is too small, and locals are encouraged to step forward with any knowledge they might have regarding the events of that night. Whether it’s a conversation overheard or a memory of the scene, every bit counts in piecing together the reality of what transpired.
How to Help
If you have any information regarding the shooting at Club Maliks, you can contact SLED at 866-472-8477 or send an email to tips@sled.sc.gov. Your help could be the key that brings closure to grieving families.
A Community’s Call to Action
As Orangeburg remembers the tragic night of September 18, 1998, community members reflect not only on the past but also on the importance of safety, support, and vigilance. It highlights a crucial message that taking action can make a significant difference in promoting justice and healing from long-standing wounds. Everyone is encouraged to come together, lend their voices, and possibly help solve this tragic chapter in the city’s history. After all, the truth matters, and justice is worth fighting for.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Live 5 News
- Wikipedia: Orangeburg County, South Carolina
- WIS TV
- Google Search: 1998 Orangeburg double killing
- WLTX
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Unsolved Cases
- WBTV
- Google News: 1998 Orangeburg club shooting
