A quiet community in the South Carolina foothills has been shattered following the discovery of a longtime married couple found dead in their home late last week. Authorities have officially launched a double homicide investigation into the deaths of 76-year-old Larry Moore and his wife, 75-year-old Sandra Moore, citing “traumatic injuries” as the cause of death.
A Grim Discovery on Cromer Moore Drive
The Oconee County Coroner’s Office confirmed the identities of the victims after deputies were summoned to a residence located on Cromer Moore Drive, just off Longcreek Highway in Westminster. The 911 call was placed shortly after 9 p.m. on Thursday evening.According to reports from WSPA, the Moores were discovered by a family member who had arrived to conduct a welfare check after several days of silence from the couple. Preliminary evidence suggests the victims had not been heard from since earlier in the week.
“From what we understand, evidence that we gathered, the victims had not been heard from since earlier in the week,” said Corporal Jimmy Watt of the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office.Investigation Details and Public Safety
While the coroner’s office has confirmed that both Larry and Sandra succumbed to traumatic injuries, specific details regarding the nature of those injuries are being closely guarded. Officials stated that withholding these details is necessary “to protect the integrity of the ongoing sheriff department investigation.”
As of Friday, investigators remained on the scene processing forensic evidence. While authorities have not disclosed a precise timeline for the killings or how long the couple remained in the home before discovery, the Sheriff’s Office has categorized the incident as “isolated.” Consequently, they have informed the community that there is no immediate evidence of an ongoing danger to the public.
“Most Faithful Members”: A Community Grieves
The Moores were pillars of their local community, known for their deep roots and active social lives. WYFF reported a significant outpouring of grief, particularly from Calvary Church, where the couple were longtime congregants.
On Friday, the church released a statement via social media: “Calvary Family, it is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of two of our longtime and most faithful members, Brother Larry and Sister Sandra Moore. Please join us in lifting the entire Moore family—and all who loved them—in your prayers during this difficult time.”
A Call for Surveillance and Tips
The Oconee County Sheriff’s Office is now turning to the public to help fill in the gaps of the investigative timeline. They are specifically requesting that any residents or commuters in the Westminster area who utilize home or vehicle security cameras check their footage for any suspicious activity recorded between Tuesday evening and Thursday morning of last week.
“If people were driving through that area, maybe people who live in the area, maybe they saw something that was suspicious or something that didn’t seem right,” Corporal Watt urged.
Authorities emphasize that any information, no matter how seemingly insignificant, could be the key to identifying a suspect. Individuals with information are encouraged to contact the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office at (864) 638-4111. Tips that lead to a successful arrest may be eligible for a cash reward.
Do you live in the Westminster area and have information that could assist investigators? Please reach out to local authorities. Our deepest sympathies are with the Moore family during this unimaginably difficult time.
