Two teenagers have been taken into custody concerning the murder of MyAngel Walker, an 18-year-old from South Carolina. Walker’s body was discovered one day after her disappearance, inside a burned vehicle.
The arrests followed a comprehensive investigation involving multiple agencies that crossed several county lines.
Walker, a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) at the National Health Center in Clinton, South Carolina, was reported missing by her family when she did not show up for her shift on December 12. Her absence from work immediately sparked worry among those who knew her, as it was unlike the committed young healthcare worker.
“It became apparent during the night that we were looking for something a little more than just somebody missing,” said Laurens Police Chief Heath Copeland.
Multiple law enforcement agencies joined forces in a coordinated search effort for Walker, who was last spotted in Clinton, SC. The collaborative investigation brought together local departments from Laurens and Clinton, along with sheriff’s offices from Laurens, Newberry, and Greenwood counties. The state-level South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) also participated in the multi-agency effort.
The search concluded tragically when Walker’s body was found the next day in a burned vehicle near McKenzie Road in Ninety Six, Greenwood County, South Carolina. The Laurens County Coroner’s Office later determined the cause of death to be a gunshot wound.
Upon investigation, law enforcement estimated the time of the shooting to be between 10 and 11 p.m. on December 11, almost 24 hours before Walker’s disappearance was reported.
Malachi Jewelz Pressley, 19, identified by the victim’s mother as her occasional boyfriend, has been arrested and charged with murder and weapon possession during a violent crime.
Taylor Kinard, 19, another teenager, was also arrested and charged with aiding in the disposal of Walker’s body after the fact. “She had knowledge of it and she helped,” explained Clinton Police Chief Michael Addison. Both suspects were denied bail and will petition the general court in the upcoming week.
The ongoing investigation involves thorough collaboration among multiple law enforcement agencies. Officials continue to interview individuals and collect evidence while encouraging anyone with information about the case to step forward.
Walker, a recent high school graduate, was passionate about healthcare and was on the path to become a nurse. Her colleagues at the National Health Center in Clinton noted her diligence and commitment to her work.
At her former high school, Walker was known for her active involvement in school spirit activities and sports. She was described as a motivated student who brought a positive energy to all her activities.
Walker’s mother, Sade Woodruff, expressed her profound grief over the loss of her daughter, describing her as a “great person” and a “leader.”
Woodruff issued a message of caution to young people in potentially similar situations, urging them to be aware of their surroundings and seek help if needed.