Homicide Investigation Leads to Arrest for Obstructing Justice in Dillon County
DILLON, S.C. — A homicide investigation in Dillon County has taken a new turn after detectives arrested a man accused of obstructing justice at the scene of a deadly shooting earlier this month.
On September 7, 2025, deputies with the Dillon County Sheriff’s Office responded to McLeod of Dillon after receiving reports of a gunshot victim. When they arrived, the victim — later identified as 48-year-old Darrick Lamont Jones of Dillon — had sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Despite lifesaving efforts, Jones was pronounced deceased within moments of arrival.
Investigators Piece Together the Scene
As homicide detectives launched their investigation, they identified and began interviewing multiple individuals who were present at the time of the shooting. Authorities say those accounts have provided critical information, but not all individuals at the scene acted appropriately in the aftermath of the violence.
During the course of the investigation, detectives discovered that one individual had interfered with critical evidence. According to the Sheriff’s Office, the person willfully picked up items of evidence from the crime scene and carried them away without informing law enforcement — an action that significantly hampered the investigation.
Arrest of Marcus Demonshia Blakely
Detectives identified the suspect as 38-year-old Marcus Demonshia Blakely of Florence, S.C. On September 15, 2025, Blakely was formally charged with Obstructing Justice. He was taken into custody and booked into the Dillon County Detention Center.
Officials stressed that interfering with a crime scene, particularly one involving a homicide, is a serious offense. Such actions not only disrupt the process of justice but can also delay closure for grieving families and jeopardize the safety of the community.
Community Asked to Assist
While Blakely has been charged, detectives emphasized that the homicide investigation into the death of Darrick Lamont Jones remains active and ongoing. Authorities are still working to piece together the full circumstances of the shooting and identify all responsible parties.
The Dillon County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information to step forward. Tips can be directed to Detective Michael Barfield by email at mbarfield@dillonsheriff.org, at the office at 843-774-1432, through non-emergency dispatch at 843-841-3707, or via the Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.
Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Pee Dee Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC (1-888-274-6372).
Sheriff’s Office Statement
In a public statement, the Sheriff’s Office extended condolences to Jones’ family and reiterated its commitment to pursuing justice. “Our investigators are working tirelessly to ensure that those responsible for this senseless act of violence are held accountable. We are asking our community to assist us in bringing closure to the loved ones of Mr. Jones.”
