As the new true crime series ‘Murdaugh Murders’ releases and Alex Murdaugh testifies, people are curious to know more about the alleged atrocities committed by the Murdaugh family. Among the cases that have resurfaced is the hit-and-run incident that took the life of 19-year-old Stephen Smith in 2015, which involved Buster Murdaugh and other alleged convicts.

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Who was Stephen Smith?

Stephen Smith was a young man with a bright future ahead of him. He was an honor roll student and had just graduated from Estill High School in South Carolina. He was well-known and respected in his community, and many who knew him described him as a kind and caring person.

On July 14, 2015, Stephen’s life was cut short when he was struck by a vehicle while walking along the side of the road near the Murdaugh family’s property in Hampton County. The driver of the vehicle fled the scene, leaving Stephen lying in the road with fatal injuries.

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The incident was initially reported as a hit-and-run, but it was later revealed that the driver of the vehicle was Buster Murdaugh. Despite this revelation, no charges were filed against Buster in connection with Stephen’s death, and the case was ultimately closed by the South Carolina Highway Patrol.

The handling of the case has since come under scrutiny, with some suggesting that Buster received preferential treatment due to his family’s status and influence in the state’s legal and political circles. The fact that no charges were filed against Buster despite his involvement in the incident has raised questions about the integrity of the investigation and the accountability of those involved.

Stephen’s family has been vocal about their desire for justice in the case. They have expressed frustration with the handling of the investigation and have called for a more thorough and transparent examination of the evidence.

The tragedy of Stephen’s death has been compounded by the fact that his family has been denied the closure and accountability that they deserve. While the release of ‘Murdaugh Murders’ may bring renewed attention to the case, it remains to be seen whether this will lead to any new developments in the investigation.

Regardless of the outcome, the case serves as a reminder of the need for transparency and accountability in the legal system. The fact that a young man’s life could be taken in such a manner and yet no charges were filed against the driver responsible raises serious concerns about the fairness of the justice system.

As the investigation into the Murdaugh family’s alleged involvement in other crimes continues, it is important to remember that the victims of these crimes deserve justice and accountability. The tragedy of Stephen Smith’s death should serve as a reminder of the need to prioritize the needs of victims and their families in the pursuit of justice.