Search Continues for Murder Suspect in Chapin
CHAPIN, S.C. – The Chapin police are actively searching for Nicholas Hamlett, a murder suspect wanted for killing a man in Tennessee. As of early this morning, Hamlett remains at large, and the police have intensified their efforts to locate him.
The investigation report indicates that about 12:30 a.m. today, Hamlett was spotted near Chapin High School. Officers have been working closely with the Lexington-Richland School District 5, ensuring that schools are kept informed during the search. As of 8:30 a.m., authorities stated that they have not yet arrested Hamlett, who is considered armed and dangerous.
The U.S. Marshals Service is playing a key role in the search and has announced a $5,000 reward for anyone who can provide information that leads to Hamlett’s capture. According to the police, Hamlett is approximately 5’7″ tall, weighs around 170 pounds, and has blue eyes and brown hair. He is also known to use multiple aliases, including the name Brandon Andrade.
In light of the ongoing search, local schools have entered a secure status. This means that while outdoor activities are not allowed, students and parents are still permitted to enter and exit the buildings. Officials from the school district sent out a message to parents emphasizing that all schools are operating on a normal schedule but noted an increased presence of law enforcement in the schools located in the Chapin area.
The district informed families that they are in continuous communication with local law enforcement and are monitoring the situation closely. Should the need arise to shift any school into a lockdown status, they assured that this would be done immediately.
As of 9:13 a.m., only the following schools are under modified secure status: Chapin Elementary Eaglets, Chapin Intermediate School, and Chapin High School. These measures will stay in effect until authorities confirm Hamlett’s apprehension or determine that the area is secure.
If anyone has information about Hamlett’s whereabouts, they are urged to call 911.
