Columbia, South Carolina – Nicholas Hamlett, wanted for murder in Tennessee, has been apprehended in South Carolina. After a confirmed sighting in Chapin, South Carolina on Halloween night, Hamlett was captured in Columbia by authorities on Nov. 10. Identified by an employee at a hospital, Hamlett’s temporary custody was secured by the United States Marshals Service Carolinas Regional Task Force, with arrangements being made for his extradition to Monroe County.
Hamlett’s capture concludes a nationwide search for the suspect, who is known for using multiple aliases and is considered dangerous and potentially armed. Linked to various states including South Carolina, Alaska, Kentucky, Montana, Alabama, and Tennessee, the U.S. Marshals Service had issued a reward of $5,000 for information leading to his arrest. A press conference on Oct. 30 highlighted the urgency of finding Hamlett, with law enforcement emphasizing the severity of the crime he is accused of committing.
The case dates back to Oct. 18 when a 911 call was made, purportedly from a distressed hiker named Brandon Andrade who had fallen off a cliff while being chased by a bear. However, upon investigation, it was discovered that the call was a ruse, and the victim identified as Steven Douglas Lloyd, 34, of Knoxville, Tennessee, had been a foster child with trust issues and mental health struggles. Hamlett, using a stolen identity, befriended Lloyd and ultimately took his life.
Law enforcement urged the public to remain vigilant, especially after a confirmed sighting of Hamlett near Chapin High School prompted a warning for residents to lock their doors and contact authorities if any suspicious activity was observed. The community’s shock at the tragic loss of Steven Lloyd underscored the importance of bringing Hamlett to justice, ensuring that the victim receives the closure and justice he deserves.
Monroe County officials expressed relief at Hamlett’s capture in Columbia, marking a significant step towards closure and justice for the victim’s family and the community impacted by this heinous crime.
