South Carolina law enforcement officials have announced the arrest of a suspect in the murder of Heyward “Trey” Delno Price III, a 32-year-old father of three. Price was tragically shot to death in 2021, just a few feet away from his sleeping children. After an extensive investigation that initially went cold, authorities have finally apprehended the alleged killer. The victim was known for his love of coaching and fishing, and his untimely death left a void in the lives of many who knew him.
The Pickens County Sheriff’s Office had previously reported the lack of an arrest in the weeks following Price’s murder. They had released details of a vehicle believed to be connected to the crime, but no progress was made. The victim was found dead with a gunshot wound, and no weapons were found at the scene. Despite a $10,000 reward that the family offered, no leads emerged.
Trey Price’s father, Delno Price, expressed his ongoing disbelief and pain, stating that he still feels like it’s all a dream. The family initially thought Trey had died from a heart attack until his young son discovered his lifeless body and alerted his grandfather. Delno Price’s devastation turned to anger, as he deemed the situation unacceptable. Trey’s mother also shared the shock and anger felt by her grandson, who couldn’t comprehend why someone would harm his father.
On Monday, the Pickens County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of Jay’Kwon Tajeek Walker, a 24-year-old man who now faces charges related to Price’s murder. Walker has been charged with murder, first-degree burglary, and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime. Investigators claim that DNA evidence recovered from the crime scene links Walker to the murder. Blood evidence found on the victim’s body allegedly matches that of the defendant.
Over the past two years, detectives from the Pickens County Sheriff’s Office have tirelessly pursued leads, interviewed associates, reviewed surveillance footage, and submitted evidence for processing. However, it was only recently, with the assistance of a DNA hit, that they identified Walker as a possible suspect. While Walker is in custody, the investigation into Price’s murder continues as authorities believe he did not act alone.
The ongoing investigation aims to uncover any additional individuals involved in the crime. The suspect now awaits his next court appearance, scheduled for September 21.