The arrest of a 19-year-old man for the alleged murder of his grandparents has sent shockwaves across a quiet rural community in upstate South Carolina, where the elderly couple were well known as longtime residents and respected church members.
Authorities in Oconee County said Levi Kevin Jones was taken into custody late last week and charged with two counts of murder in connection with the deaths of Larry Moore, 76, and his wife Sandra Moore, 75. The couple were found dead inside their home near Westminster on January 15 after relatives requested a welfare check when attempts to contact them failed.
What investigators said?
According to investigators, Larry Moore died from multiple stab wounds, while Sandra Moore was killed by manual strangulation. Autopsy reports confirmed the deaths were homicides, and officials said a knife was used in the attack. Jones also faces two counts of possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime and remains in custody awaiting a bond hearing.
Sheriff Mike Crenshaw said the investigation led authorities to Jones, the couple’s grandson, who was arrested at his residence after investigators recovered the alleged murder weapon. While officials said a motive has been identified, it has not been made public as the investigation continues.
The Moores were longtime residents of Westminster and former owners of Moore & Moore Fish Camp, a popular local restaurant they operated for decades before retiring in 2016. They were also active members of Calvary Church, where fellow congregants described them as regular and devoted attendees.
“They were always there,” said church member Stacy Brooks. “You expected to see them every time you went. They were faithful people.”
Residents of the small town said the incident has been difficult to comprehend in a close-knit community where violent crime is rare. Authorities have stressed that the killings appear to be an isolated incident and that there is no ongoing threat to the public.
Jones is currently being held at the Oconee County Detention Center. Officials said additional charges remain possible as the case moves forward.
