On Saturday afternoon, March 5, 2022, Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to Franklin Dr., Burton regarding a report of an unresponsive male lying in a yard.
After the scene was secured by deputies, Beaufort County Emergency Medical Services responded and determined that the man was deceased.
The cause of the man’s death was not apparent, but believed suspicious.
Sheriff’s Office investigators and the Beaufort County Coroner’s Office were summoned.
At the scene, investigators processed for forensic evidence and interviewed witnesses.
On Monday, March 7, the body of the deceased man, identified as 55-year-old Steven Whitlock of Burton, underwent forensic autopsy at the Medical University of South Carolina.
At autopsy, pathologists determined that Whitlock died as a result of gunshot wounds; Whitlock’s manner of death was deemed a homicide.
Sheriff’s Office investigators seek information on the identity of the subject responsible for Whitlock’s shooting death.
Anyone who has information is encouraged to contact Sergeant David Tafoya at 843-255-3430 or Crime Stoppers of the Lowcountry at 843-554-1111, if wishing to remain anonymous and for possible reward.