Sumter County deputies have arrested a man they say is connected to the deaths of two women found in a rural field last month. Sheriff Anthony Dennis confirmed Friday that 29-year-old Tiamo Henry Mitchell Drakeford has been charged in the case.
Drakeford faces counts of murder, possession of a weapon during a violent crime, and desecration of human remains. Because of the seriousness of the charges, a magistrate judge could not consider bond during his Saturday morning hearing. A circuit court will decide on bond at a later date.
The charges stem from the August 8 discovery of the bodies of 38-year-old Kristen N. Grissom of North Charleston and 35-year-old Christine Marie McAbee of Walterboro in a field off Richbow Road in the Rembert area. Investigators believe the women knew each other, per local NBC affiliate WIS.
Sumter County Coroner Robbie Baker confirmed that McAbee died from a gunshot wound and ruled her death a homicide. Grissom’s cause of death has not yet been determined. Toxicology reports remain pending, and the sheriff’s office confirmed Saturday that her death is still under investigation.
Authorities said evidence indicates the bodies had been placed in the field after the women were killed elsewhere. Sheriff Dennis emphasized that investigators do not believe the killings were random. “This was a targeted act,” he said, noting that detectives are continuing to follow leads.
While Drakeford’s arrest marks a major step forward, Dennis stressed that the case is not closed. “The investigation is not complete, and we anticipate additional arrests,” he told reporters.
The sheriff’s office is continuing to work closely with the coroner’s office and state investigators. Meanwhile, officials urged the public to come forward with any information that might help advance the case.
Tips can be shared anonymously through CrimeStoppers by calling 888-274-6372, visiting P3Tips.com, or submitting information at MidlandsCrimeStoppers.com.
The deaths of Grissom and McAbee have shaken their families and communities. Both women were remembered by loved ones as caring individuals whose lives were cut short by violence. Investigators are hoping community cooperation will bring more answers and accountability in the weeks ahead.