BLACKVILLE, S.C. () – The Blackville Police Department is offering a cash reward for information about a homicide that claimed the life of 18-year-old Rakel Howard back in June 2025.

In a press release on Monday, Sept. 29, 2025, the police department confirmed that they are investigating Howard’s death as a homicide.

“The Blackville Police Department is actively investigating Rakel’s death as a homicide and is asking for the public’s assistance,” the statement reads in part. “We need your help to bring those responsible to justice and to provide closure for the family and loved ones of Rakel Howard.”

On June 21, 2025, officers responded to the area of Davis Street and Oak Avenue after reports of shots being fired. They then located a male, identified as Howard, unresponsive in the backyard of a residence on Oak Avenue. First responders rendered, but Howard succumbed to his injuries.

The cash reward the Blackville Police Department is offering is for information that “leads to the identification, location, arrest, and conviction of the individual or individuals” in the homicide.

Those with information that can assist in the investigation are asked to contact the Blackville Police Department at (803) 284-2444 or email Chief Freddie Washington at fwpolicechief@townofblackville.com.