News Summary
Nicholas Wayne Hamlett, a 45-year-old man, was arrested in Columbia, South Carolina, after a nationwide manhunt linked him to a murder and identity theft scheme. Despite his claims of amnesia, investigators charged him with first-degree murder following evidence that contradicted his story. His wife was also arrested for aiding his escape, leading to a complex investigation that drew comparisons to a thriller film. The case continues to unfold, raising concerns about potential more revelations.
Columbia, South Carolina – A Wild Chase and a Shocking Revelation
In a surprising turn of events, law enforcement has arrested Nicholas Wayne Hamlett, a 45-year-old man who had been the target of a nationwide manhunt. This pursuit, which kicked off in Tennessee, captured the attention of many as it culminated in Columbia, South Carolina.
A Dangerous Game
Authorities did not hold back in describing Hamlett as “extremely dangerous”, mainly due to his lengthy history of violent behavior aimed at personal gain. It is hard to believe that this man’s criminal activities went far beyond just simple theft. Hamlett had been linked to a horrifying identity theft scheme that eventually led to the murder of a homeless man named Brandon Kristopher Andrade in Monroe County, Tennessee.
What’s particularly chilling about this case is how Hamlett allegedly took out an astounding $8 million in life insurance policies in the victim’s name. This shocking move raised alarms and further solidified the suspicions against him. After committing the murder, Hamlett went to great lengths to disguise his involvement, even faking his identity and making a false 911 call claiming to be a distressed hiker.
Aiding and Abetting
In what sounds like a plot straight from a thriller novel, local authorities did not only apprehend Hamlett; they also arrested his wife, Taylor Ann Fiber. She was accused of aiding him by purchasing his bus ticket and supplying him with camping gear. Fiber’s arrest took place last week in South Carolina, but she was later transported to Tennessee where she was released on a $30,000 bond and fitted with an ankle monitor.
Complex Investigations
The investigation turned out to be more complicated than anyone anticipated. Lt. Jason Fillyaw compared the unfolding drama to the movie “Catch Me If You Can”, highlighting just how elusive Hamlett had been during this chaotic sequence of events. Local law enforcement conducted extensive searches in Chapin, South Carolina, especially after a sighting on Halloween night near Chapin High School.
An Unfortunate End
Finally, on November 10, Hamlett was discovered in a rather concerning state—unconscious and in poor medical condition at St. Andrews Park in Columbia. Surprisingly, after being found, Hamlett claimed to have amnesia and only vaguely remembered being in the Harbison area on Halloween.
His identity was recognized by medical staff thanks to the wanted posters that had circulated widely in the media. Law enforcement quickly took him into custody, and he was transferred to a local hospital before being sent off to the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center, where he would await his fate.
Facing Justice
The aftermath of the investigation has led to an arrest warrant for Hamlett on charges of first-degree murder. Investigators discovered that the deceased man’s body exhibited signs of blunt force trauma, which contradicted Hamlett’s claim of a bear attack. To add to the evidence against him, the phone used for the 911 call traced back to Hamlett’s home, and authorities learned he had used multiple aliases throughout his criminal activities.
With ties to multiple states—including South Carolina, Alaska, Kentucky, Montana, Alabama, and Tennessee—Hamlett’s web of deceit has only begun to unravel. The U.S. Marshals Service had previously offered a $5,000 reward for information leading to his capture, emphasizing just how dangerous he was considered to be.
What Lies Ahead
As Hamlett and Fiber prepare to appear in Monroe County Court next Monday, the community holds its breath. Local officials have warned that anyone who communicates with Hamlett could also face legal consequences. With the twists and turns this case has taken, one can only wonder what other surprises may still be in store.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Chapin, South Carolina on High Alert Amid Manhunt
Manhunt in Newberry County for 20-Year-Old Suspect
Newberry County Experiences Shocking Incidents
Lexington County Man Sentenced for Attempted Murder
Lexington County Community Confronts Rising Crime Issues
Columbia’s Dark Turn: Teen Arrested for Murder
Columbia Police Respond to Suspicious Package Report
Manhunt in Chapin, South Carolina for Murder Suspect
Lexington Man Sentenced Following Bold Escape Attempt
Sheriff Lee Foster Reaffirms Commitment to Newberry County
Additional Resources
- WISTV
- WJCL
- WATE
- CNN
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Nicholas Wayne Hamlett
- Google Search: Nicholas Wayne Hamlett
Author: STAFF HERE Chapin
CHAPIN STAFF WRITER The CHAPIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREchapin.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chapin, Lexington County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Chapin Christmas Parade, Fourth of July Celebration, and the Chapin Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chapin Chamber of Commerce and the Lexington School District One, plus leading businesses in retail and recreation that power the local economy such as Lake Murray Tourism and the Chapin Visitor Information. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
