Full Breakdown
Denial of Immunity in Horry County Road Rage Shooting Case
3/7/2026, 10:13:42 PM
Overview of the Case
In a significant ruling, a South Carolina judge denied Kenneth “Bradley” Williams' request for immunity under the state's stand-your-ground law in connection with a deadly road rage incident that occurred on September 9, 2023. The shooting involved Weldon Boyd, who shot and killed Scott Spivey during a high-speed pursuit that began on Highway 9 and ended on Camp Swamp Road in Horry County. The judge's decision follows a hearing that evaluated the evidence and testimonies presented regarding the circumstances of the shooting.
Key Findings from the Hearing
The judge, Eugene Griffith, concluded that Williams did not meet the burden of proof required to establish his entitlement to immunity. The court found that both Williams and Boyd engaged in reckless behavior by pursuing Spivey at speeds exceeding 100 mph, which contributed to the confrontation. The judge noted that Spivey, who was reportedly driving erratically and allegedly brandishing a firearm, posed no immediate threat when he exited his vehicle with his gun pointed downwards.
Witness testimony, particularly from Frank McMurrough, contradicted the defendants' claims that they only drew their weapons in response to Spivey firing first. McMurrough observed Spivey with his gun down and testified that Boyd was already aiming his weapon at Spivey before any shots were fired. The judge highlighted that the defendants' actions demonstrated a lack of reasonable fear for their safety, undermining their self-defense claims.
Legal Implications and Next Steps
The denial of immunity means that both Boyd and Williams could still face civil liability for Spivey's death. The case is set to be reviewed by a grand jury, which will determine whether criminal charges should be filed against the defendants. The South Carolina Attorney General's Office previously indicated that the stand-your-ground law was applicable, but the ongoing investigation and the judge's ruling may prompt a reevaluation of that stance.
Criticism of the Investigation
The investigation into the shooting has faced scrutiny, particularly regarding the conduct of the Horry County Police Department (HCPD). Allegations of mishandling evidence and potential misconduct have emerged, leading to calls for a review by the South Carolina Attorney General. Concerns have been raised about the relationship between Boyd and former HCPD Deputy Chief Brandon Strickland, who resigned amid allegations of misconduct related to the case.
Official Statements
Attorney General Alan Wilson has expressed the need for a thorough review of the HCPD's investigation, stating that new information could alter the initial findings regarding the applicability of the stand-your-ground law. He emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in cases involving police conduct and the use of deadly force.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Driving in excess of 100 miles per hour trying to keep up with someone who has a gun is foolish and aggressive behavior that foreseeably brought on the confrontation with Spivey,” — Judge Eugene Griffith
- “This callous celebration of taking a human life demonstrates a complete absence of reasonable fear for their safety and contradicts any claim the Defendants acted in necessary self-defense,” — Judge Eugene Griffith
The outcome of the grand jury review and any subsequent legal actions will be closely monitored as the case continues to unfold, raising important questions about self-defense laws and police accountability in South Carolina.
