COLUMBIA, S.C. — The Lexington Police Department is renewing its call for public assistance in solving the homicide of a Lexington man, Tyler Robinson, known as "T-Rob," who was shot and killed two years ago.
On July 9, 2022, officers responded to reports of a shooting at Lauren Ridge Apartments on Carlen Avenue. Upon arrival, they found Robinson on a stairway leading to his apartment, having been shot multiple times.
Detective Corporal Kenneth Heath of the Lexington County Investigations Unit believes there are individuals close to Robinson who possess crucial information but are reluctant to cooperate.
"From the two years of investigating, I can tell you that they do know more than they would say they do," Heath said. "They are holding onto very valuable information. Even if it's minute, it's information that could end up closing this case and bringing justice to Tyler Robinson and his family."
Heath has been dedicated to the case since the beginning, examining camera footage and conducting eyewitness interviews, trying to piece together Robinson's last moments.
"From camera footage to eyewitness testimonies and trying to figure out his pattern of life in the last minutes and hours leading up to his death," Heath said.
Despite obtaining valuable evidence, including camera footage, interviews, and CrimeStoppers tips, significant gaps remain in the investigation, causing frustration among investigators.
"I think the most frustrating thing for me personally, and I would imagine for other investigators who have assisted on this case, is the lack of communication from the community," Heath said.
Heath said that multiple individuals who claimed to have loved or been close friends with Robinson were not as cooperative as needed.
"We've tried multiple times to reach out to these individuals, to speak to them, and what we are getting is either they don't want to speak to us or they don't know anything," he said.
However, Heath said he remains hopeful. After the shooting, the suspects are accused of stealing several pieces of custom jewelry from Robinson. They then proceeded to break into his apartment, taking other valuable items they found.
"So the jewelry is very unique because it has his brand, his 'LMC,' on there, especially the ring and the pendant he has that has 'LMC' on it," Heath said.
The jewelry remains crucial evidence, and Heath urged anyone with information to come forward.
"I'm asking on behalf of the family of Tyler Robinson, the children that will grow up without their father, we are asking that they come forward," Heath said.
Anyone with helpful information about the homicide, potential suspects, or missing jewelry can leave an anonymous tip with Midlands CrimeStoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC.