The Clinton Police Department posted on Wednesday, “Death Investigation – 119 Poplar St, Clinton SC
“Clinton Police Department is currently conducting a death investigation in the area of 119 Poplar Street in the Lydia Mill community. A large police presence is on scene as we work to gather all necessary information.
“At this time, there is no known threat to the public.
“We ask that residents avoid the area while investigators work. Further information will be released as it becomes available.
“Anyone with information is encouraged to contact CPD at 864-833-7512 or submit tips anonymously to Crimestoppers at 864-68CRIME.”
UPDATE:
Death Investigation Leads to Murder Arrest
Clinton, SC – On June 25, 2025, officers with the Clinton Police Department responded to 119 Popular Street to conduct a welfare check after neighbors reported not seeing one of the occupants in over a week.
During the investigation, officers located a deceased individual inside the residence. The roommate of the victim was detained on scene. As the investigation progressed, it was determined that the victim had been murdered.
Stephen Kristopher Brown, 23, has been arrested and charged with the following offenses:
• Murder
• Possession of a Weapon During the Commission of a Violent Crime
• Desecration of Human Remains
• Ill Treatment of Animals
Brown was transported to the Johnson Detention Center, where he is currently awaiting a bond hearing.
This remains an active investigation. At this time, there is no known threat to the public.
Anyone with information related to this case is urged to contact the Clinton Police Department at 864-833-7512, email cpdtips@cityofclintonsc.com, or call Laurens County Crime Stoppers at 864-68-CRIME.
CORONER:
Death Investigation Leads to Murder Arrest, Clinton, SC. On June 25, 2025, officers with the Clinton Police Department responded to 119 Popular Street to conduct a welfare check after neighbors reported not seeing one of the occupants in over a week. During the investigation, officers located a deceased individual inside the residence. The roommate of the victim was detained on the scene. As the investigation progressed, it was determined that the victim had been murdered. Stephen Kristopher Brown, 23, has been arrested and charged.
Coroner Patti Canupp has identified the deceased as Hector Luis Santos Cartagena, a 59-year-old male from Clinton. An autopsy is being performed today to determine the cause of death.
This is still an ongoing investigation from the Laurens County Coroner’s Office, Clinton PD, and SLED.
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family.
More from the Clinton Police Department here.
