Rock Hill SC, August 27, 2025
News Summary
Evan Hawthorne’s trial for the murder of retired Rock Hill police lieutenant Larry Vaughan has begun, stemming from a bar altercation four years ago. Testimonies reveal injuries on Hawthorne, as well as conflicting accounts of the events leading to Vaughan’s death. The courtroom is filled with community members eager to follow the case, raising important questions regarding law enforcement conduct and mental health issues.
Trial for Evan Hawthorne Accused of Murdering Retired Rock Hill Police Lt. Larry Vaughan Begins
The trial of Evan Hawthorne, accused of murdering retired Rock Hill police lieutenant Larry Vaughan, commenced at the Moss Justice Center. The incident in question occurred four years ago, stemming from a bar altercation between the two men.
Deputy Sheriff Joshua Yates testified during the trial that Hawthorne had swollen knuckles when he was interviewed after Vaughan’s death. Although Hawthorne did not have any facial injuries, he was reported to have injuries on his hands, knees, and toes, likely indicating a struggle.
Vaughan was discovered deceased in his apartment on July 23, 2021, by Rock Hill police Sergeant Allen Cantey, who was a friend of the victim. Cantey found Vaughan lying in a pool of blood, leading to immediate suspicions of foul play due to the presence of blood on the hallway walls.
Details of the Incident
According to the prosecution, led by Assistant Solicitor Spenser Smith, the conflict began at Tattooed Brews, where Vaughan and Hawthorne, both with law enforcement backgrounds, bonded initially before becoming heavily intoxicated. Video footage from the bar shows the two men falling to the ground, with Vaughan later being escorted out.
Following the bar incident, a reconciliation hug was observed outside. However, Smith argued that Hawthorne later pursued Vaughan to his apartment, forcibly entered, and attacked him based on comments Vaughan made relating to Hawthorne’s civil unrest and PTSD.
In his defense, attorney Jack Swerling claimed that Vaughan had invited Hawthorne to stay over as he was too drunk to go home. Swerling asserted that Vaughan attacked Hawthorne first while he was in the bathroom, leading to an act of self-defense on Hawthorne’s part. He also criticized the police investigation, stating it was biased against Hawthorne, and pointed out discrepancies in police reports.
Key Evidence and Community Reaction
During the police interview, Hawthorne expressed difficulty in recalling the events due to his state of intoxication. He mentioned a confrontation with Vaughan that escalated and resulted in Vaughan sustaining fatal injuries. After leaving Vaughan’s apartment, Hawthorne was seen with blood on his hands and injuries from falling while heading home.
Prosecutors planned to present shoes abandoned by Hawthorne at a park, which were found a month post-incident, a critical piece of evidence. The civil case filed by Vaughan’s estate against Hawthorne and Tattooed Brews remains pending, with no trial date established.
The courtroom has witnessed a significant turnout of family and community members eager to follow the proceedings. As testimony continues, both local law enforcement and the community are closely monitoring the developments of this high-profile trial.
Background Context
Hawthorne, a former Chester County deputy sheriff, has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him. The case has raised questions not only about the conflict that led to Vaughan’s death but also about the broader implications of violence and mental health issues within law enforcement circles.
The investigation into Vaughan’s death was initially handled by his colleagues in the Rock Hill Police Department, but due to prior relations with Vaughan, the inquiry was then transferred to the York County Sheriff’s Office.
As the trial proceeds, numerous eyewitness testimonies and forensic evidence are expected to shape the court’s understanding of the events that transpired that fateful night.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the charges against Evan Hawthorne?
Evan Hawthorne is accused of murdering retired Rock Hill police lieutenant Larry Vaughan during a bar altercation.
What evidence has been presented in the trial so far?
Testimonies include Deputy Sheriff Joshua Yates reporting Hawthorne’s injuries, as well as video footage from the bar, where the confrontation occurred.
How has the community reacted to the trial?
The courtroom has been filled with family and spectators, reflecting significant local interest in the case.
What is the status of the civil case related to Larry Vaughan’s death?
A civil case filed by Vaughan’s estate against Hawthorne and Tattooed Brews is pending, with no trial date set at this time.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
No Charges Filed in Fatal Shooting Outside Dollar General
No Charges Filed in Sharon Self-Defense Shooting Incident
Former York County Sheriff Arrested for Leaving Crash Scene
Former York County Sheriff Kevin Tolson Arrested
Shooting Incident Involving Law Enforcement in Rock Hill
Rock Hill Police Involved in Shooting of Woman with BB Gun
Rock Hill Police Officer Shoots Woman Wielding Replica Gun
Police Officer Shoots Woman During Rock Hill Pursuit
Rock Hill Officer Shoots Armed Woman After Standoff
Rock Hill Police Officer Involved in Shooting Incident
Additional Resources
- Herald Online: Trial for Evan Hawthorne Accused of Murdering Retired Rock Hill Police Lt. Larry Vaughan Begins
- Wikipedia: Murder
- WSOC TV: Delay Preempts Trial for Deputy Accused of Murdering Retired Police Officer
- Google Search: Evan Hawthorne trial
- Crime and Cask: Former Chester County Deputy Faces Murder Trial
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
