SUMTER COUNTY, S.C. — Two years after a local man died, Sumter County deputies say they have made a breakthrough in the case and issued an arrest warrant.
On July 8, 2022, deputies say they responded to a call on Edgehill Road and found Stephen Collins deceased with multiple gunshot wounds.
Now, deputies say investigators have made a breakthrough in the case this week and have issued arrest warrants for the suspect, Elijah Keith Fleming.
It is alleged that between July 7, 2022, and July 8, 2022, the suspect, Elijah Keith Fleming, and an accomplice entered a door at the home of Stephen Collins on Edgehill Road while armed with a firearm with the intent to steal items from within the home.
Once the suspects were inside the residence, investigators believe Fleming and an accomplice shot Collins several times while he was sitting on his couch.
With forensic evidence gathered at the scene and Fleming’s statement implicating himself, he was charged with murder and first-degree burglary.
Currently, Fleming is being held on murder and aggravated assault charges at the Clayton County Jail in Clayton County Georgia. Fleming’s extradition to Sumter County is pending the resolution of his charges there.
“Our deputies work very hard to gather evidence and bring justice for every victim," Sumter County Sheriff Anthony Dennis said. "I am thankful for their determination that has finally brought about these charges.”
Although two years had passed, Dennis said, “I hope this will begin to bring some comfort and a sense of closure to Mr. Collins’ family and friends.”
It should also be a reminder to those who think they can escape justice, according to Sheriff Dennis. “We never forget, and we never quit.”
Meanwhile, the investigation into the murder of Stephen Collins continues.
Anyone with information about the case is asked to contact Crimestoppers anonymously in any of the following ways:
- Call 888-CRIME-SC (888-274-6372).
- Use the P3 Tips mobile app.
- LOG ON to www.midlandscrimestoppers.com, and click on the red “Submit a Tip” tab.