Barnwell, SC — South Carolina authorities have brought charges against a local woman following the fatal stabbing of a pregnant teenager earlier this year. The incident, which ended in the tragic deaths of both the 17-year-old and her unborn child, has stirred considerable public and media attention.
On Monday, 62-year-old Jacqueline Reid of Barnwell was indicted on two counts of murder related to the deaths of Maylashia Hogg, who was at full term in her pregnancy, and her baby. Hogg, reported missing in mid-February, was found dead on February 18 near the suspect’s residence on Perry Street. This neighborhood lies roughly 78 miles southwest of Columbia.
The state police disclosed that the teenager had sustained multiple stab wounds. Hogg was about to become a mother to a girl she intended to name London Charity, a homage to her late mother. Before she disappeared, it was noted that her labor was scheduled to be induced just a week after she was last seen between February 6 and 8.
According to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), which took over the investigation from local police following the discovery of the body, forensic evidence linking the crime to Reid was found during a search of her home.
Investigators have stated that Hogg was attacked near the intersection of Perry Street and Main Street. The precise motives behind the crime and the relationship between Reid and Hogg have not been publically disclosed by authorities.
An autopsy confirmed Hogg’s death was a homicide, caused by “multiple sharp force wounds.” Following the grim discovery, SLED was prompted by the local police department to lead the ongoing investigation, which revealed the severe nature of the attacks through affidavits. Reid, who is currently held at Barnwell County Detention Center, is slated to make her first court appearance on August 26.
The handling of the case by law enforcement has been under scrutiny, prompting SLED to enhance their investigative team. This team comprises specialists from various units, including forensic services, behavioral science, and victim services, along with regional law enforcement cooperatives throughout Barnwell County and beyond.
Mark Keel, the Chief of SLED, emphasized the commitment to thorough and equitable law enforcement across the state. “Every case is important, and every victim deserves justice,” Keel stated, underscoring the extensive efforts dedicated to solving this case.
The broader investigation includes widespread outreach for community inputs and tips. SLED has established a dedicated tip line and email for information that could lead to further understanding or evidence in the ongoing investigation.
The 2nd Circuit Solicitor’s Office is set to prosecute the case, reflecting the grave nature of the crime and the combined resolve of local and state authorities to achieve justice for Hogg and her unborn daughter.