ORANGEBURG, S.C. (WJBF) — An arrest has been made in the shooting death of Bamberg man George Christopher Caldwell in Orangeburg. “This was what we consider a senseless and unprovoked incident,” Orangeburg Department of Public Safety Chief Charles Austin Sr. said.
On Wednesday afternoon, The Orangeburg Department of Public Safety announced the arrest of 17-year old Malikai Shamel Johnson in connection with Caldwell’s death. He faces murder, attempted armed robbery, and weapons charges. “If we identify anyone who in any way attempted to impede or obstruct this investigation, then of course, that could be charges, could be forthcoming,” Chief Austin added.
Authorities say Caldwell was shot and killed outside Dodge’s Store on Old Edisto Drive on February 7th. They used local business and city-owned surveillance footage to gather key leads. “We were able to identify the suspect and obtain warrants for him. The suspect was taken into custody without incident on yesterday,” he shared.
There’s no evidence Johnson was enrolled in school in Orangeburg, and no sign the victim and suspect knew each other. “The child didn’t bother nobody. It was just so hurting to know that someone did this to him. My grandchild, I was, it was like my grandchild. He was never, never in any trouble,” Orangeburg City Councilwoman L. Zimmerman Keitt shared.
Leaders are stressing the importance of parental responsibility. “We have to do a better job as a community, as a society to raise our children, when our children engage in criminal activity. It is a reflection on us. And when you cause the type of hurt and pain, that the Caldwell family is enduring is inexcusable,” City Administrator Sidney Evering, II said.
A handcuffed and shackled Johnson also faced a bond judge Wednesday. He was questioned and informed of his rights. Victim’s advocate Karen Sanders spoke on behalf of the Caldwell family. “This is a tremendous void that has been left in this family’s heart as a result of this since this incident. Certainly we are requesting at this particular time that the alleged suspect not have any contact with his family as well as any of his family to make contact with this family,” she said.
Meanwhile, bond for Johnson has been denied. The case now heads to general sessions, where a circuit court judge will set bond. He’s not allowed contact with the Caldwell family. The Orangeburg Department of Public Safety is asking anyone with more information to come forward.
