Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 29th of July.
Good morning, Spartanburg.
A fatal crash occurred at 6:10 p.m. Monday night on Brockman McClimon Road & Gateway Drive when a 2019 Jeep collided with a 2006 Honda, leaving 53-year-old Lewis Montgomery Reece dead and the Jeep driver injured and taken to Prisma Health Greer Memorial Hospital.
On Monday, July 28, a 35-year-old man was sentenced to 35 years in prison after he shot Jason Hammett in the head near Old Spartanburg Highway in Woodruff on June 8 after a falling-out—deputies said two women reported he fired at their car causing it to crash as they fled.
Ric Stephens, 63, is running for Spartanburg County sheriff and plans to use his international law enforcement experience to crack down on drug trafficking by tracking proceeds and seizing assets.
He also aims to boost department morale and raise deputy pay by cutting waste and liquidating seized goods — measures he says will reform the sheriff's office.
Joseph Pilato, one of nine candidates for Spartanburg County sheriff, said his work in Florida and Texas will help raise training standards and boost deputy morale by meeting with each officer to hear their concerns; he also supports a step-pay system to secure competitive salaries. Early voting is underway with the GOP primary set for August 5 and a special election scheduled for November 4 — his campaign aims to modernize law enforcement practices in our community.
Robert Cheeks, a Spartanburg County Sheriff candidate and 1st lieutenant, has worked to curb gang violence affecting local youth and plans to boost deputy morale by listening to staff in his first 100 days if elected — he said that raising competitive pay and supporting ICE while protecting rights will guide his approach in the GOP primary on August 5 and the special election on November 4.
A dangerous heatwave has hit the Upstate with record highs, prompting Spartanburg County Emergency Management to open a cooling shelter at 701 Saxon Avenue through Thursday.
Spartanburg 911 reported 17 heat-related calls since last Thursday and Fire Marshal Daryl Workman advised outdoor workers to stay hydrated, seek shade, and call 911 if they show signs of heat exhaustion.
A 12-year-old boy died from a Naegleria fowleri infection after swimming in Lake Murray, state officials said—his family confirmed the cause of death and is pushing for steps to protect others from this rare but deadly infection.
Experts note that young boys are most often at risk when playing in warm freshwater.
Fretwell Market
9 AM - 1 PM — Fretwell — Free entry — Explore seasonal food, local gifts, and artisan crafts at this vibrant community market.
Lawson Brothers Band Live Performance
7 PM - 1 AM — Local Hiker Pub — Entry details not specified — Enjoy a high-energy blend of country music from the dynamic Lawson Brothers DUO.
Free Shred Event for Financial Privacy
9 AM – 1 PM — South Carolina Federal Credit Union — Free event — Protect your privacy while donating to the Harvest Hope Food Bank.
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