Details of the Murder and Accusations

Two weeks ago, Kenneth Lasane Jr., a 26-year-old United States Army specialist, was shot dead at a party on Barnes Street. The suspect, Shaquan Ahmad Champion, aged 23, is currently facing charges of murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.

Champion is accused of gunning down Lasane at the event before fleeing from the site of the crime. It is believed that two of his family members aided his escape and their journey ended in Michigan, where authorities apprehended them. Additionally, reports reveal that Champion was out on bond for an attempted murder charge relating to a previous incident in Mullins.

Victim’s Father Speaks Out

During the arraignment, Kenneth Lasane Sr. provided a heartfelt account about his son, mentioning that the soldier had only returned home to celebrate a birthday with a family friend. The tragic development has left the bereaved family in shock and sorrow.

Bond Proceedings and Verdict

Judge Cheryl Graham, who oversaw the hearing, refused to grant bond to Champion. To seek bail, he will now have to request another bail hearing through the South Carolina Circuit Court system.

Moreover, Champion’s father, Thomas Rashad Champion, and Shaday Cash, the family members accused of assisting the murder suspect to flee, have been charged with accessory after the fact of felony murder. The bond for Thomas Champion was set at $50,000 while Cash’s bond was determined to be $25,000. Their imposed conditions include no contact with the victim’s family, asking for permission to leave the state, staying out of trouble, and maintaining peace.

Case Will Continue in Court

The serious nature of this case was reflected in John Jepertinger’s, Florence County Twelfth Circuit Deputy Solicitor, comment during the bond hearing. He stated, “This is not a simple case. They actively took him to Detroit, knowing he had a murder charge. They took him out of state to avoid the prosecution.”

However, despite the denial of Champion’s bond and the sorrow surrounding the incident, the community will have a chance to bid farewell to their beloved soldier. Lasane’s funeral will take place later this week at Mullins High School, marking the end of a life dedicated to serving the country and protecting its citizens.