Orangeburg, S.C. – A local man faces charges in connection with the fatal shooting of a 20-year-old Claflin University student that occurred over the weekend, according to law enforcement officials. Nathaniel Grant has been arrested and charged with murder, grand larceny, and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime.
Sheriff Leroy Ravenell of Orangeburg County announced that the victim, identified as O’Brian Grant, was found dead on Saturday morning along Legendary Road. Authorities emphasized that the suspect and the victim were not related. The discovery of the body was reported through an emergency call around 10:30 a.m. the same day.
“The link that led us to the suspect involved the victim’s car—a black 2015 Honda Accord,” Ravenell explained. After the crime, Nathaniel Grant allegedly altered the vehicle’s license plates and attempted to create a phony paper trail. “Inside the car, we discovered what appeared to be a bill of sale, but upon closer examination, revealed itself to be a crudely fabricated invoice dated on the day of the murder,” Ravenell added.
During a press conference, Ravenell suggested that the perpetrator might have been monitoring their statements and warned that the ongoing investigation would increase pressure on him. “He’s likely very uncomfortable knowing that these details are being discussed publicly,” Ravenell noted.
Additional investigations led authorities to the victim’s hidden vehicle, parked behind an abandoned building where Nathaniel Grant was apprehended. Details from witnesses further confirmed Nathaniel Grant’s association with the vehicle.
As the community reels from the shock of such a violent act against a college student, the sheriff called the motive unclear but criticized the action as cowardly. “Deciphering the motive behind this heinous crime continues to be a major part of our investigation,” he stated.
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the case to contact the Orangeburg County law enforcement.
Nathaniel Grant is scheduled for a bond hearing on Tuesday afternoon, where further details of the case are expected to emerge. Local residents and members of the Claflin University community are closely following developments in a case that has rattled the small South Carolina town.