Rock Hill, SC, August 29, 2025
News Summary
The trial of Evan Hawthorne, accused of murdering retired Rock Hill Police Lt. Larry Vaughan, uncovers crucial evidence regarding Vaughan’s death from blunt force trauma and strangulation. Testimonies from medical experts and footage from a local bar provide key insights into the night of the incident. As the trial continues, the community remains captivated by the proceedings and its implications for local safety.
Rock Hill, SC — The trial of Evan Hawthorne, a former deputy sheriff charged with the murder of retired Rock Hill Police Lt. Larry Vaughan, revealed critical details regarding Vaughan’s death on July 23, 2021. Forensic pathologist Angelina Phillips testified that Vaughan died from blunt force trauma to the head and neck along with strangulation. The trial opened on August 25, 2025, in York County and has drawn significant attention from the local community.
During her testimony, Phillips confirmed the medical findings laid out by York County coroner Sabrina Gast, who stated that Vaughan’s death occurred while he was lying face up, as indicated by the discoloration observed on his back. Gast had previously offered a pocket knife found in Vaughan’s possession to law enforcement but could not recall what happened to the knife. This item was not treated as direct evidence, leading to questions from the defense about her priorities during the investigation.
Evidence collected also revealed that Vaughan’s T-shirt was soaked with blood at the time it was gathered. DNA analyst Bryn Jones elaborated on the findings from tests conducted on numerous items related to the case, including blood and DNA samples from both Vaughan and Hawthorne. Notably, neither individual could be excluded from DNA located in Hawthorne’s fingernail clippings.
Video footage from Tattooed Brews, where Vaughan and Hawthorne were seen conversing prior to the incident, portrayed Vaughan appearing relaxed, leaning on Hawthorne’s chair. Bar owner Adam Perlowich shared concerns about Vaughan’s safety that evening. Despite feeling uneasy, Perlowich left the bar after Vaughan deemed Hawthorne “cool,” which allowed Hawthorne to follow Vaughan to his apartment.
Perlowich attempted to block Hawthorne from entering Vaughan’s apartment but was overpowered. Witnesses observed Hawthorne displaying aggressive behavior throughout the night, including his attempts to follow Vaughan home. After Perlowich and a friend departed Vaughan’s apartment, it is suspected that a confrontation occurred, culminating in Vaughan’s tragic death.
Hawthorne was arrested within hours following Vaughan’s death and has remained in custody without bond while pleading not guilty to the murder charges. Vaughan, who dedicated over 30 years to the Rock Hill Police Department, was a respected figure within the community, known for diffusing tensions and serving as a reliable presence in local affairs.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding Vaughan’s death is ongoing, with the York County Sheriff’s Office leading the inquiry. As the trial continues, more details are anticipated to emerge, shedding light on the events that led to the retired officer’s untimely demise.
FAQ
What led to the death of retired Rock Hill Police Lt. Larry Vaughan?
Larry Vaughan died due to blunt force trauma to the head and neck and strangulation on July 23, 2021.
Who is Evan Hawthorne?
Evan Hawthorne is a former deputy sheriff charged with the murder of Larry Vaughan and has pleaded not guilty.
What evidence has been presented in the trial?
Key evidence includes Vaughan’s blood-soaked T-shirt, DNA found in Hawthorne’s fingernail clippings, and video footage showing their interactions at Tattooed Brews.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Deceased | Retired Rock Hill Police Lt. Larry Vaughan |
| Date of Death | July 23, 2021 |
| Cause of Death | Blunt force trauma and strangulation |
| Defendant | Evan Hawthorne |
| Trial Start Date | August 25, 2025 |
| Community Impact | Vaughan was a respected figure in Rock Hill |
| DNA Evidence | Found in Hawthorne’s fingernail clippings |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Trial Continues in Rock Hill Police Lieutenant’s Murder Case
Murder Trial of Former Deputy Sheriff Unfolds in Rock Hill
Former Deputy Sheriff Faces Trial for Murder of Retired Officer
Trial for Evan Hawthorne Accused of Murdering Retired Police Lt.
Trial Set for Accused Murderer of Retired Police Officer
Trial Date Set for Murder of Retired Rock Hill Police Lieutenant
Additional Resources
- Herald Online: Details on the Murder Case
- Wikipedia: Larry Vaughan
- Island Packet: Charges Filed in Homicide
- Google Search: Rock Hill homicide Evan Hawthorne
- WSOC TV: Rock Hill Police Department Incident
- Google Scholar: Murder Investigation Rock Hill
- WBTV: Legacy of Lieutenant Vaughan
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Murder Investigation
- Fits News: Sister of Crime Victim Speaks Out
- Google News: York County Sheriff’s Office
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.
