Five Face More Charges in Child Murder

Five people are now charged in the murder of 11-year-old A’Kyri Bell at Myrtle Beach.

The following individuals are facing charges of unlawful conduct toward a child:

• Lakesha Burnett, 34 (two counts)  $40,000 bond.
• Alantis Thomas, 21 (two counts) $40,000 bond.
• Darnell Dearmus (one count), $20,000 bond.
• Margaret Roberson, 56, (three counts) no bond.
• Camisha McGaskey, (three counts) no bond.

A sixth person is expected to face the same charges shortly.

Through a coordinated effort between the Horry County Police Department Criminal Investigations Division, Patrol, and Special Operations, as well as members of Horry County Sheriff’s Office and SLED, a search warrant was served Tuesday morning (Aug. 12) that led to the arrest of Burnett, Thomas, and Dearmus.

McGaskey was previously charged with murder in the case and remained in custody at J. Reuben Long Detention Center (JRLDC).  Roberson was also already in custody at JRLDC on trafficking in persons charges from SLED. Burnett and Thomas were previously charged with obstruction of justice in the murder case and were out on home detention at he time of these additional charges.

HCPD Chief of Police Kris Leonhardt said this case has “left its mark on all involved” in the investigation and community.

“The death of a child is a tragedy. A’Kyri was just 11 years old, and she deserved the same opportunities as all children—to live, learn, and grow—and that was cut short at the hands of others,” said Leonhardt. “I’m proud of the hard work our officers and detectives have put into this case, and will be watching with interest as this progresses through the courts.”

The death of A’Kyri was originally reported on June 11, when HCPD was called to a home on Sago Palm Drive in the Myrtle Beach area of unincorporated Horry County. The 911 call reported an unconscious child. Upon arrival, officers found A’Kyri with extensive traumatic injuries. A’Kyri was later pronounced deceased at an area hospital.

The Horry County Coroner’s Office ultimately determined A’Kyri had multiple blunt force injuries. The death was ruled a homicide.

The investigation remains active and ongoing at this time.