Florence County, October 20, 2025
News Summary
A 36-year-old man, Steven Allen Howle, has been charged with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime after a shooting incident in the Southern Pines mobile home community in Florence County. The altercation left one victim dead, and the investigation is ongoing as authorities continue to gather information. The identity of the victim has not yet been released, causing concern among residents about community safety.
Florence County
A 36-year-old man from Lamar, South Carolina, named Steven Allen Howle, has been charged with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime following a deadly shooting incident that took place on Saturday evening. The shooting occurred in the Southern Pines mobile home community on Bartley Court, located near East Howe Springs Road.
The altercation that led to the shooting left one victim dead, although authorities have not yet released the victim’s identity. Details surrounding the confrontation are limited, but Howle was apprehended the following day, on Sunday, by deputies from the Florence County Sheriff’s Office.
Howle is currently being held at the Florence County Detention Center and is awaiting a bond hearing. The investigation into the incident is still ongoing, and further updates may follow as authorities gather more information.
Incident Details
The shooting incident transpired in the Southern Pines mobile home community, marking a tragic event for the residents. According to preliminary reports, the incident arose from an unspecified altercation, culminating in Howle allegedly shooting the victim. It remains unclear what initiated the dispute, which has left members of the community in shock.
Legal Proceedings
Following his arrest, Steven Allen Howle was formally charged with murder, which suggests that the prosecutors believe they have a strong case against him. The charge of weapon possession during a violent crime indicates further implications under state law regarding gun-related offenses.
Victim Information
As of now, no information has been released regarding the identity of the victim, nor have authorities disclosed the details surrounding the relationship between Howle and the victim. The delay in releasing this information is common in active investigations, particularly when it relates to sensitive matters of life and death.
Community Reactions
The shooting has understandably caused concern among residents of the Southern Pines community. Serious incidents such as this can lead to heightened anxiety and fears surrounding safety. Community leaders and local law enforcement are likely to engage with residents to address their concerns and provide reassurance as investigations continue.
Background Context
Florence County has seen various incidents of gun violence over the past few years, leading to discussions about community safety and law enforcement practices. This particular shooting highlights ongoing issues related to violent crime in the area, raising questions about the effectiveness of measures currently in place to reduce such occurrences.
As the investigation proceeds and more information surfaces, it may prompt discussions at a local level about criminal justice policies and community safety efforts aimed at preventing violence in the future. These events often serve as critical reminders of the importance of addressing the root causes of violent behavior in society.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are conducting an active investigation into the shooting incident. As they examine the details and circumstances surrounding the events leading up to the altercation, further announcements may provide clarity. Investigators are likely interviewing witnesses or reviewing surveillance footage, if available, to construct a comprehensive account of the incident.
Conclusion
The tragic shooting incident in Florence County has prompted both legal action and community concern. With Steven Allen Howle facing serious charges, the legal proceedings will unfold in the coming weeks, and the community awaits more information regarding the victim and the series of events that transpired.
FAQ
What charges has Steven Allen Howle faced?
Steven Allen Howle has been charged with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.
Where did the shooting take place?
The shooting occurred in the Southern Pines mobile home community on Bartley Court, near East Howe Springs Road.
Was the victim’s identity released?
No, the identity of the victim has not yet been released by the authorities.
What is the current status of Steven Allen Howle?
He is currently being held at the Florence County Detention Center while awaiting a bond hearing.
Is the investigation ongoing?
Yes, the investigation into the incident is still ongoing.
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Additional Resources
- WMBF News: Man Charged with Deadly Shooting in Florence County
- Wikipedia: Florence County, South Carolina
- WPDE: Lamar Man Arrested After Deadly Shooting in Florence
- Google Search: Florence County Shooting
- WBTW: Lamar Man Charged with Murder After Weekend Shooting
- Google Scholar: Florence County Gun Violence
- WLTX: Florence County Shooting Arrest
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Florence, South Carolina
- Fox 13 News: 9 Teens Charged in Deadly South Carolina Shooting
- Google News: Florence County Shooting

Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.