Burton, October 23, 2025
News Summary
Demetrius Roshad Moultrie, a resident of Burton, faces serious charges of homicide by child abuse following his three-year-old son’s tragic death. Investigations revealed suspicions surrounding the death, which occurred at Moultrie’s home. Authorities have arrested him, and he remains in custody with no bond set. Moultrie’s prior felony conviction and ongoing investigation add depth to this distressing case, prompting community discussions about child safety.
Burton, Beaufort County – Demetrius Roshad Moultrie, a 35-year-old man from Burton, has been charged with homicide by child abuse following the death of his three-year-old son. The incident reportedly involved abuse that occurred over the summer, and the child was pronounced dead on the night of July 17, 2025, at Beaufort Memorial Hospital after being found unresponsive.
On July 17, shortly before 10 p.m., Beaufort County deputies responded to a call about an unresponsive child being transported to the hospital. Upon investigation, authorities deemed the circumstances surrounding the child’s death “suspicious.” The alleged incident occurred at Moultrie’s residence on Kato Lane, which is situated near the Laurel Bay military housing complex.
Following a forensic analysis of the case, Beaufort County authorities obtained Moultrie’s arrest warrant. He was subsequently taken into custody on Monday, October 20, 2025. Moultrie is currently being held at the Beaufort County Detention Center, with no bond set as of October 22, 2025. If convicted, he faces a potential prison sentence ranging from 20 years to life.
Definition and Legal Implications
In South Carolina, homicide by child abuse is defined as causing the death of a child under age 11 while engaging in child abuse or neglect, which is characterized by “extreme indifference to human life.” Moultrie’s criminal history includes a felony firearms conviction from 2013, for which he served 18 months of probation, in addition to several unresolved drug charges.
Ongoing Investigation
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office continues to pursue further details and has made a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request regarding Moultrie’s arrest warrant and additional case context. The investigation remains active as officials sift through the circumstances surrounding the child’s death and any potential culpability on the part of Moultrie.
Community Reactions
The tragic loss of a young life has stirred emotions within the community, prompting conversations about child safety and the responsibilities of guardians. As updates unfold, community members are left grappling with the implications of such a grievous act.
Conclusion
As the legal process continues, Moultrie remains in custody, awaiting further judicial proceedings. The case highlights serious issues regarding child welfare and the need for vigilant protective measures for vulnerable populations.
FAQ Section
What charges has Demetrius Roshad Moultrie faced?
Demetrius Roshad Moultrie has been charged with homicide by child abuse.
When did the child die?
The child was pronounced dead on the night of July 17, 2025.
Where did the incident take place?
The suspected incident occurred at Moultrie’s home on Kato Lane, near the Laurel Bay military housing complex.
What is the maximum prison sentence Moultrie faces if convicted?
If convicted, Moultrie faces a potential prison sentence ranging from 20 years to life.
What is the legal definition of homicide by child abuse in South Carolina?
Homicide by child abuse is defined in South Carolina law as causing the death of a child under age 11 while committing child abuse or neglect, characterized by “extreme indifference to human life.”
What is Moultrie’s criminal history?
Moultrie has a criminal record that includes a felony firearms conviction for which he served 18 months probation in 2013, as well as several unresolved drug charges.
Is Moultrie currently out on bond?
As of October 22, 2025, Moultrie remains in custody at the Beaufort County Detention Center with no bond set.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Charges | Homicide by Child Abuse |
| Date of Incident | July 17, 2025 |
| Age of Child | 3 years |
| Location | Kato Lane, near Laurel Bay military housing |
| Prison Sentence Range | 20 years to life if convicted |
| Current Status | In custody, no bond set |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Beaufort County Investigates Double Shooting in Bluffton and St. Helena
Investigations Underway After Two Shooting Incidents
Burton Man Charged with Homicide by Child Abuse
Additional Resources
- Island Packet
- Wikipedia: Homicide by Child Abuse
- WTOC
- Google Search: Homicide by Child Abuse South Carolina
- WSAV
- Google Scholar: Child Abuse Law South Carolina
- Live 5 News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Child Abuse
- WCTI12
- Google News: Beaufort County Crime
- WJCL

Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.

