Last Wednesday (April 10th), the Laurens Police Department responded to a residence on Camp Circle due to a report of a possible death. Upon arrival, officers did confirm the death of 46 year old Patricia Owens who lived in the home. The cause of death appeared to be multiple gunshot wounds and detectives immediately launched a homicide investigation.
Thanks to the support of the family, the diligent efforts of all involved and the cooperation of the public, a person of interest was quickly identified and a search for their whereabouts began. Officers developed probable cause for arrest in the case and warrants were drafted and signed for two individuals in this incident. Jerod Keykendall Harris, 42, and Adreanna Nichole Simmons, 33. Both face charges of Murder and Possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime.
Several law enforcement agencies including agents from the SLED Fusion Center and SLED’s Piedmont Region determined that the two wanted subjects had fled the state of South Carolina. Both were apprehended on Tuesday, April 16th in the state of Michigan by the US Marshal Service along with local authorities in Michigan. Mr. Harris and Ms. Simmons are currently in custody at a detention facility in Michigan where they await extradition back to Laurens.
The Laurens Police Department extends their gratitude to the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office, Laurens County Coroner’s Office, and the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services for their assistance in the initial response to the crime scene and throughout the ensuing investigation. The 8th Circuit Solicitor’s Office has been in constant contact with detectives throughout the investigation and are assisting with the extradition process. They will also be prosecuting the case against Mr. Harris and Ms. Simmons.
Please continue to pray for the family of Ms. Owens as they continue to navigate this unimaginable situation. If you have additional information regarding this incident please contact the Laurens Police Department by calling (864)984-3532.
