Willie Hopkins Jr Obituary, Death – A tragic shooting at a Saluda County industrial facility claimed the lives of two individuals Monday evening. Officials have now released the identities of the victims, as the investigation into the fatal incident continues.
Victims Identified
The Saluda County Coroner’s Office confirmed that the two people killed in the shooting were 44-year-old Willie Hopkins Jr. and 52-year-old Kimberly Leon. Both individuals were found at the scene of the incident, which unfolded at a facility in the small town of Ward, South Carolina.
Incident Details
Deputies from the Saluda County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) responded to an emergency call shortly before 6 p.m. Monday regarding a shooting at a local industrial plant. The facility, owned by Darling Ingredients Inc.—formerly known as Valley Proteins Inc.—became the site of a violent altercation that ended in gunfire.
When law enforcement arrived, they discovered Hopkins and Leon, both suffering from fatal injuries. Authorities have not yet disclosed whether the shooting was the result of a dispute between employees, a targeted attack, or an unrelated incident.
Investigation Underway
The Saluda County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Detectives are gathering evidence, speaking with potential witnesses, and working to piece together the events leading up to the tragedy.
At this stage, officials have not provided details on a possible suspect, and it remains unclear whether law enforcement is pursuing an arrest. Authorities have not stated if the incident involved a workplace dispute or if the shooter was connected to the facility.
Autopsies Pending
To assist with the investigation, autopsies for both victims have been scheduled for later this week. The results may provide additional insights into the case, including further information on the cause of death and potential forensic evidence.
Ongoing Law Enforcement Efforts
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Law enforcement is working diligently to determine a motive and establish the chain of events that led to the fatal confrontation.
The Saluda County community remains shaken by the violent incident, and officials are committed to ensuring justice for the victims and their families. Further updates are expected as investigators continue their work.
