More than two years after a drive-by shooting claimed the life of a 13-year-old boy in rural South Carolina, authorities have announced criminal charges against two individuals believed to be connected to the case.
Investigators with the Chesterfield County Sheriff’s Office said the arrests mark a significant step forward in a lengthy investigation that has remained a priority for law enforcement since the fatal shooting in January 2024.
Murder Charge Filed Against Suspected Shooter
According to the Chesterfield County Sheriff’s Office, Caleb Garcia, 23, has been charged with murder, seven counts of assault and battery, possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime, and breach of peace.
Garcia is currently serving a prison sentence in North Carolina following an unrelated attempted murder conviction tied to a separate shooting that occurred approximately one week after the South Carolina incident.
Authorities said arrangements will be made for Garcia to face the newly filed charges in Chesterfield County at an appropriate time.
Second Suspect Arrested
Investigators also arrested Amber Moree, 21, who now faces charges including accessory after the fact of murder, obstruction of justice, and misprision.
Law enforcement officials have not released additional details regarding her alleged role but indicated that the investigation remains active.
The sheriff’s office noted that additional criminal charges could be filed as investigators continue reviewing evidence.
Victim Was Not the Intended Target
The fatal shooting occurred on January 26, 2024, when deputies responded to reports of gunfire at a property in Chesterfield County.
Authorities said Jacob Duncan, 13, suffered a gunshot wound while inside a barn located on his family’s property. He later died from his injuries.
Investigators believe Jacob was not the intended target. According to officials, the suspected shooter was attempting to target another individual at the location when a stray bullet struck the teenager.
Sheriff Highlights Long Investigation
Chesterfield County Sheriff Cambo Streater praised investigators for their persistence throughout the more than two-year investigation.
In a statement, Streater acknowledged the emotional toll the case has taken on Jacob’s family and the local community, expressing hope that the recent arrests provide some measure of accountability, even though they cannot undo the family’s loss.
The sheriff also emphasized that investigators remain committed to pursuing justice regardless of how much time passes, adding that unresolved cases continue to receive dedicated attention until those believed to be responsible are identified.
Investigation Remains Ongoing
Authorities have indicated the investigation is still active and have not ruled out additional arrests or charges.
As the legal process moves forward, prosecutors are expected to determine the next steps while Garcia remains incarcerated in North Carolina awaiting transfer to South Carolina to answer the pending charges.
Attorneys representing the suspects had not publicly commented on the allegations as of the latest information released by authorities.
The filing of charges more than two years after Jacob Duncan’s death represents a major development in a case that has deeply affected the Chesterfield County community. While the arrests cannot reverse the tragedy, investigators say they remain committed to ensuring that everyone believed to be responsible is held accountable through the judicial process.
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