Florence County, October 25, 2025
News Summary
Authorities in Florence County have arrested Chelsea Graham Dew and Steven Howle, both charged with murder following a shooting incident on October 18. Bobby Spates, facing attempted murder charges, was also arrested in a separate case. The investigations into these incidents are ongoing as gun violence raises concerns in the community.
Florence County, SC – Two Arrests Made in Connection with Deadly Shootings
Authorities in Florence County have made two significant arrests related to recent shooting incidents that resulted in fatalities. Chelsea Graham Dew, 33, and Steven Howle, 36, have both been charged with murder stemming from a tragic shooting that occurred on October 18. At the same time, Bobby Spates, 34, of Florence, faces multiple charges including attempted murder in a separate incident.
Details of the Incident
On October 18, Chelsea Dew reportedly picked up Steven Howle from Lamar, South Carolina, before heading to a residence located on Bartley Court in Florence County. Following an alleged altercation at the home, Howle is accused of fatally shooting the victim, which led to both Dew and Howle being charged with murder as well as possession of a weapon during a violent crime. Currently, both individuals are being held at the Florence County Detention Center.
In an unrelated case, Bobby Spates was arrested on October 1 for an incident that occurred at the Baymont Hotel on West Lucas Street. During an argument, Spates reportedly pulled a firearm on a victim and subsequently threatened them in an effort to dissuade them from pursuing criminal charges against him. Spates is now facing charges for intimidation of court officials, jurors, or witnesses, along with attempted murder. He is also being held without bond at the Florence County Detention Center.
Current Status
Both investigations of the shooting incidents remain ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.
Background Context
Gun violence has become an escalating concern in many communities across the United States, including Florence County, which has experienced several shootings in recent months. Local law enforcement is actively working to address violent crime through community outreach and targeted investigations, striving to ensure public safety and prevent further incidents. The charges against Dew, Howle, and Spates underscore the serious legal repercussions associated with such crimes, as law enforcement continues to prioritize the protection of residents.
Key Takeaways
- Chelsea Graham Dew and Steven Howle charged with murder from a shooting on October 18.
- Bobby Spates charged with attempted murder and intimidation related to a shooting on October 1.
- Both cases bring attention to ongoing concerns regarding gun violence in the region.
FAQ
What charges are Chelsea Dew and Steven Howle facing?
They are both charged with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.
When did the shootings occur?
The shooting involving Dew and Howle took place on October 18, while the incident involving Spates occurred on October 1.
What is Bobby Spates accused of?
Spates is accused of attempted murder and intimidation of witnesses in connection with a previous shooting.
Where are the suspects currently held?
All suspects are currently being held at the Florence County Detention Center.
Are investigations ongoing?
Yes, authorities state that investigations into both the October 18 and October 1 incidents are still active.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Shooting Incidents in Florence, SC: Teen Arrested and Man Charged
Civil Trial for Convicted Killer Delayed Due to Health Issues
Fatal Drug Deal Escalates into Shooting in Florence County
Tragic Shooting Claims Life of 15-Year-Old in Lake City
Florence Woman Arrested for Connection to Deputy’s Murder
Florence Commemorates Anniversary of Fallen Officers
Shooting at Baymont Inn in Florence County
Shooting Incident in Pamplico Leaves One Dead, Two Injured
Shooting Incident Leaves Toddler Fatally Injured in Florence County
Investigation Underway After Toddler is Fatally Shot in Florence County
Additional Resources
- WMBF News: Man Accused of Demanding Victim Not Press Charges
- WPDE: Lamar Man Arrested After Deadly Shooting in Florence
- WBTW: 1 Person Shot After Argument at Florence County Hotel
- WLTX: Florence County Shooting Arrest
- ABC News 4: Florence School Incident
- Wikipedia: Gun Violence in the United States
- Google Search: Florence County Shooting
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Violence
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.
