Authorities in Pickens County have identified the woman killed in a heartbreaking incident early Saturday morning, leaving a community shaken and searching for answers. Officials confirmed that 41-year-old Crystal Lynn Pace of Easley lost her life in what is now being investigated as a homicide. Her sudden death has sparked a major investigation involving several local agencies, all working to understand exactly what happened inside the home where she was found.
Deputies with the Pickens County Sheriff’s Office were called to a residence on Oakwood Street shortly after 8 a.m. after reports of a violent disturbance. When they arrived, they found Pace inside the home with a fatal injury caused by a sharp object. Emergency responders determined she had already passed away. The Pickens County Coroner later confirmed that her injuries were intentional, and an autopsy was scheduled to help clarify the details surrounding her death.
As the investigation unfolded, authorities interviewed individuals connected to the home and collected evidence from the scene. Their efforts quickly led them to a suspect who, they said, had a personal connection to Pace. By Saturday afternoon, officials announced the arrest of 35-year-old Brandon Wayne Hopkins, who was taken into custody in connection with Pace’s killing. Investigators said the two knew each other, though they did not share specifics about their relationship.
Hopkins now faces serious charges, including taking a life and possessing a weapon during the commission of a violent crime. He was transported to the Pickens County Detention Center, where he is being held without bond. Officials said he will remain there as court proceedings begin to move forward in the coming days and weeks. Law enforcement has emphasized that the investigation is ongoing, and more details will be released when appropriate.
Multiple agencies have joined forces to support the case. The Easley Police Department assisted deputies on the ground, while the Pickens County Coroner’s Office provided medical assessments and coordinated the autopsy. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources also played a role, though officials have not disclosed the specifics of their involvement. Such collaboration is common in major cases, allowing investigators to pool their resources and expertise.
Residents in the Easley community say they are stunned by the tragedy. Violent incidents are rare in the area, and many neighbors have expressed heartbreak over Pace’s death. Community leaders are urging residents to look out for one another, offer support where it’s needed, and stay connected as the community processes the loss. As investigators continue piecing together what happened, the community is left mourning a life taken far too soon.
