Gaffney, South Carolina, September 23, 2025
News Summary
Human remains found in Gaffney, South Carolina, have been identified as those of Kevin Scott Brookshire, who had been missing for over three years. John Lucas Rice, a resident of Shelby, North Carolina, has been charged with Brookshire’s murder. The remains were discovered in August 2023, and investigations suggest that Rice confessed to the crime, which reportedly occurred in December 2021. Legal proceedings against Rice are underway as the community seeks answers regarding the case.
Gaffney, South Carolina
Human remains discovered in Gaffney, South Carolina, belong to Kevin Scott Brookshire, who has been missing for over three years. John Lucas Rice, a 21-year-old resident of Shelby, North Carolina, has been charged with Brookshire’s murder as investigations continue into the case.
The remains were found by Cherokee County sheriff’s deputies using cadaver dogs on August 22, 2023. The identification of the remains as Brookshire took place on September 15, 2023. Brookshire was last seen in Chesnee, South Carolina, before disappearing without a trace.
Rice was arrested and charged with murder on September 19, 2023, after investigators identified him as a person of interest. Reports suggest that Rice confessed to murdering Brookshire, stating that the crime happened in December 2021.
According to officials, the remains were located in different parts of the backyard at Rice’s residence, and there are allegations that he had shown the decomposing human remains to another individual in a trash bag. The discovery of the remains came after a tip from the Spartanburg County Cold Case Unit.
After being arrested, Rice was booked into the Cherokee County Detention Center. He is currently representing himself in court, with proceedings ongoing as of September 22, 2023. He was denied bond during a hearing on September 20, 2023.
Details regarding the connection between Rice and Brookshire and the motive for the murder have not been disclosed by the sheriff’s office, as the investigation remains active. Authorities continue to gather evidence while the legal process unfolds.
Timeline of Events
- December 2021: John Lucas Rice allegedly committed the murder of Kevin Scott Brookshire.
- August 22, 2023: Cherokee County sheriff’s deputies found human remains using cadaver dogs.
- September 15, 2023: The remains were identified as belonging to Kevin Scott Brookshire.
- September 19, 2023: Rice was arrested and charged with murder.
- September 20, 2023: Rice was denied bond during a court hearing.
- September 22, 2023: Rice is representing himself in court.
Background
Kevin Scott Brookshire’s disappearance in Chesnee, South Carolina, went unsolved for over three years until the recent discovery of his remains. The cold case was reignited when the Spartanburg County Cold Case Unit provided a crucial tip that led investigators to Rice.
This case has raised community concern and brought attention to the issue of missing persons in South Carolina. The ongoing efforts by law enforcement officers to resolve this case have demonstrated their commitment to finding justice for victims and their families.
Conclusion
As the legal proceedings continue, the Gaffney community remains on edge, hoping for answers regarding the circumstances surrounding Brookshire’s death and the motive behind the actions of John Lucas Rice.
FAQ
Who is Kevin Scott Brookshire?
Kevin Scott Brookshire is a missing person whose remains were discovered in Gaffney, South Carolina, after being missing for over three years.
What charges has John Lucas Rice faced?
John Lucas Rice has been charged with the murder of Kevin Scott Brookshire.
When were the remains of Kevin Scott Brookshire identified?
The remains of Kevin Scott Brookshire were identified on September 15, 2023.
What led to the discovery of the remains?
The discovery of the remains was facilitated by a tip from the Spartanburg County Cold Case Unit.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Missing Person | Kevin Scott Brookshire |
| Suspect | John Lucas Rice |
| Charges | Murder |
| Date Remains Found | August 22, 2023 |
| Date of Identification | September 15, 2023 |
| Connection to Cold Case Unit | Tip led to discovery of remains |
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Additional Resources
- WYFF4: Suspect Confesses During Cold Case Investigation
- Wikipedia: Cold Case
- Fox Carolina: Arrest Made in Gaffney Murder Investigation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Murder
- Gaffney Ledger: Murder Trial Begins
- Google Search: Kevin Scott Brookshire
- WSPA: Gaffney Teen Charged with Murder
- Google News: John Lucas Rice
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.
