Florence Police Investigate Series of Robberies and Gun Violence

News Summary

Florence police are investigating recent robberies and a fatal shooting that have heightened community concerns about safety. Multiple suspects are being sought in connection to ongoing incidents, including a robbery at a tobacco shop where one individual was apprehended. The investigation encompasses a shooting incident involving juveniles, further increasing anxiety among residents. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact them as they strive to restore order and security in the community.

Florence, S.C. – Police Investigate Recent Robberies and Gun Violence

Florence police are currently investigating a series of robberies along with a recent shooting incident that has raised concerns in the community. On Wednesday afternoon, a robbery took place on Christopher Lane, and investigators have been actively searching the area for clues and potential suspects.

According to Captain Stephen Starling of the Florence Police Department, officers initially focused their efforts on Layton Street, where they believed a suspect may have fled the scene. However, no suspects were located during this search. The police are urging anyone with information related to the recent robberies to contact them at 843-665-3191.

In a separate incident, a robbery at a tobacco and vape shop located on Pamplico Highway involved four suspects. The authorities have apprehended one of the suspects, 17-year-old Marquayvion Campbell, who has been charged with robbery. Another individual, Z’Jordan Andrews, is still at large and is wanted for strong-armed robbery.

During the shop robbery, the suspects reportedly jumped over the store counter and made off with approximately $1,500 from the cash register in addition to around $4,000 worth of merchandise. Initial reports suggested that one of the suspects displayed a firearm during the robbery; however, authorities later clarified that this may not have been the case. Campbell remains in custody at the Florence County Detention Center without bond.

The string of violence in Florence also includes a fatal shooting incident that occurred on March 26, 2025, at Southern Oaks Apartments on Hermitage Drive. Police discovered the body of a juvenile in the parking lot, initiating an immediate investigation. It was revealed that the deceased individual, along with another juvenile, had planned to rob a third person at the time of the shooting.

As the investigation unfolded, the surviving juvenile suspect was taken into custody and now faces serious charges of felony murder and first-degree robbery. Due to age restrictions, the name of this suspect has not been released to the public. Their bond is set at $100,000.

In an unrelated incident, a 65-year-old man named William Tuites was arrested for robbing the Guardian Savings Bank located in Florence, Kentucky. Tuites allegedly presented a note to a bank teller, demanding cash, and fled with an undisclosed amount of money. He was captured later that same day at a motel. Tuites is facing charges of first-degree robbery and is currently held at the Boone County Detention Center.

The recent incidents of robberies and gun violence have stirred anxiety among residents of Florence, bringing attention to the ongoing issues of crime in the area. Local law enforcement is taking active measures to address community safety and apprehend those responsible for these violent acts.

Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to help authorities combat crime effectively. The Florence Police Department continues to work diligently with the community to restore safety and security.

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Additional Resources

• WPDE: Florence Police Investigate Robbery
• WMBF: Teen Suspect in Tobacco Store Robbery
• WHNT: Officer Involved Shooting on Florence Boulevard
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Robbery
• FOX19: Florence Bank Robbery