FLORENCE COUNTY, S.C. — Authorities are investigating a disturbing homicide after a woman’s body was discovered inside a burned vehicle Thursday night in Florence County. The case has shocked the community and raised urgent questions as investigators work to determine how and why the deadly incident occurred.
The Florence County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as Dana Marie Kinlaw, 40, of Olanta. Coroner Keith von Lutcken confirmed that Kinlaw died from a gunshot wound and that her death has officially been ruled a homicide. An autopsy is scheduled to be performed next week at the Medical University of South Carolina to gather more details about the cause and manner of death.
According to the Florence County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called to the Armfield Road area Thursday night after reports of a burned vehicle. When deputies arrived, they found the charred vehicle and discovered Kinlaw’s body inside. Authorities later determined the vehicle was located on Atlantic Road in Effingham, where the scene was secured for investigation.
Investigators believe the vehicle fire may have been intentionally set in an attempt to destroy evidence or conceal the crime. The combination of a gunshot death and a burned vehicle has made the case especially complex, and officials say multiple agencies are now working together to piece together what happened in the hours leading up to Kinlaw’s death.
Sheriff TJ Joye said detectives are actively following leads, interviewing potential witnesses, and examining physical evidence recovered from the scene. At this time, no suspects have been publicly identified, and authorities have not released information about a possible motive. Officials are urging the public to remain patient as the investigation continues.
The death of Dana Marie Kinlaw has left family members, friends, and the Olanta community grieving a sudden and violent loss. Beyond the crime scene and the investigation, a life has been taken under tragic circumstances. Authorities are asking anyone with information that could help solve the case to contact the Florence County Sheriff’s Office as they work to bring answers and justice to Kinlaw’s loved ones.
