Rock Hill, South Carolina, January 29, 2026
In a major development, Paul Ray Craig Jr. has been arrested for the 2016 murder of Walter Faile in Rock Hill. The breakthrough came through DNA and fingerprint evidence found at the crime scene. Faile, aged 77, was discovered dead in his apartment with multiple injuries. The police are continuing their investigation into this long-unsolved case, which was reopened by detectives who identified Craig as a suspect. Craig was denied bond after his arrest, and justice for the victim’s family remains a priority for law enforcement.
Rock Hill Man Arrested in 2016 Cold Case Murder
Rock Hill, South Carolina – A significant breakthrough in a nearly decade-old murder case occurred on January 27, 2026, when 51-year-old Paul Ray Craig Jr. was arrested and charged with the 2016 murder of Walter Faile. The arrest was made possible through the analysis of DNA and fingerprint evidence found at the crime scene.
Details of the Crime
On July 7, 2016, Walter Faile, 77, was discovered deceased in his Hutchinson Street apartment in Rock Hill. The victim had sustained multiple blunt force injuries and stab wounds. Despite initial investigations, the case remained unsolved, leading to its designation as a cold case.
Breakthrough in the Investigation
In recent months, detectives revisited the case, re-examining the existing evidence. Their efforts led to the identification of Paul Ray Craig Jr. as a suspect. DNA and fingerprints found on objects believed to have been used in the assault were matched to Craig, providing the critical link needed to charge him with murder.
Current Status
Following his arrest, Craig was denied bond during a court hearing. The Rock Hill Police Department continues to investigate this case and is committed to bringing justice to the victim and his family.
Background on Cold Case Investigations
Cold cases, such as this one, are criminal investigations that have not been solved after a prolonged period. Advances in forensic science, particularly DNA analysis, have been instrumental in solving many cold cases. For instance, in 2025, a 25-year-old cold case in Forsyth County, North Carolina, was resolved through DNA matching, leading to a conviction.
Call for Information
The Rock Hill Police Department urges anyone with information related to this or any other unsolved cases to come forward. Tips can be directed to the Criminal Investigations Division at 803-329-7293.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was the cause of Walter Faile’s death?
Walter Faile, 77, was found deceased in his Hutchinson Street apartment in Rock Hill on July 7, 2016. The victim had sustained multiple blunt force injuries and stab wounds.
How was Paul Ray Craig Jr. linked to the crime?
DNA and fingerprints found on objects believed to have been used in the assault were matched to Paul Ray Craig Jr., leading to his arrest and charge with murder.
What is the current status of the case?
Following his arrest, Paul Ray Craig Jr. was denied bond during a court hearing. The Rock Hill Police Department continues to investigate the case to bring justice to the victim and his family.
How can I provide information about this case?
Anyone with information related to this or any other unsolved cases is urged to contact the Rock Hill Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division at 803-329-7293.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | Walter Faile, 77 |
| Location of Crime | Hutchinson Street apartment, Rock Hill, South Carolina |
| Date of Crime | July 7, 2016 |
| Suspect Arrested | Paul Ray Craig Jr., 51 |
| Evidence Leading to Arrest | DNA and fingerprints matching Craig found on objects at the crime scene |
| Current Status | Craig denied bond during court hearing; investigation ongoing |
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