Richland County, SC — The Richland County community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 56-year-old Shelia Walker, who tragically succumbed to stab wounds sustained during a violent altercation earlier this week. The Richland County Coroner’s Office, led by Coroner Nadia Rutherford, confirmed Walker’s death, which occurred on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, following a stabbing on Faraway Drive.
Authorities from the Richland County Sheriff’s Department (RCSD) responded to a distress call on the 2000 block of Faraway Drive, where they discovered Shelia Walker with severe stab injuries. Emergency responders rushed her to a local hospital, where she sadly passed away due to her wounds.
The suspect in the fatal incident has been identified as 17-year-old Trinity Goodwin. Despite her age, Goodwin is being charged as an adult and faces serious charges, including:
- Murder
- Possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime
According to the initial investigation and incident report, the violent altercation began as a confrontation involving Goodwin and some of her relatives. What started as a verbal dispute outside the residence reportedly escalated inside the apartment. At some point during the argument, Goodwin allegedly retreated to the kitchen and armed herself with a kitchen knife, which she used during the fatal encounter.
Law enforcement officials have yet to determine whether Shelia Walker had a familial relationship with Goodwin, as the investigation into the nature of their connection continues.
Witnesses on the scene reportedly provided critical information to deputies about Goodwin’s whereabouts following the incident. Based on these accounts and additional evidence, RCSD deputies located and apprehended the teenager without further incident.
Investigators further stated that during an interview, Trinity Goodwin allegedly confessed to the stabbing, admitting to her involvement in the fatal act.
Following her arrest, Goodwin was transported and booked into the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center, where she is currently being held pending further legal proceedings. It remains unclear whether bond has been set or if a court date has been scheduled.
Shelia Walker’s sudden and violent death has left a void in the lives of those who knew and loved her. Family members, friends, and community members describe Walker as a woman of strength, grace, and compassion — someone who didn’t deserve the senseless violence that took her life. Her death marks another tragic moment in an ongoing struggle to curb youth violence and domestic disputes that escalate to deadly outcomes.
Sheriff Leon Lott and the RCSD have emphasized their commitment to a thorough investigation and have encouraged any members of the public who may have information related to the incident to come forward. The department has also expressed condolences to Walker’s loved ones and reaffirmed their pursuit of justice.
As the legal process unfolds, Shelia Walker will be remembered not only for the tragic circumstances of her death but for the life she lived — a life now honored by a community in mourning. Funeral arrangements will be announced by her family in the coming days. May she rest in peace.
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