May 1, 2025

Ongoing Investigation into Unsolved Murder of Joseph H. Hymes

News Summary

Fourteen years after the tragic murder of 23-year-old Joseph N. Hymes, law enforcement continues to seek information on the case. Hymes’ body was discovered in a roadside ditch in West Ashley, and despite interviews and investigations, authorities have yet to identify any suspects. The Charleston County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information to come forward to help bring closure to this open case. Community cooperation remains essential in addressing unsolved homicides and upholding justice in the area.

Charleston, South Carolina – The Charleston County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the unsolved murder of 23-year-old Joseph N. Hymes, 14 years after his body was discovered in a roadside ditch in West Ashley. Hymes was reported missing after last being seen leaving his mother’s home on April 30, 2011. His case remains open as investigators appeal to the public for any information that could lead to arrest and prosecution.

On the afternoon of April 30, emergency responders were alerted to a scene in West Ashley where Hymes’ body was found. From the beginning of the investigation, initial reports indicated that sounds similar to a firecracker were heard in the area around the time of the incident. However, authorities later determined that these sounds were actually gunfire, which was responsible for Hymes’ death.

During the immediate aftermath of the discovery, several friends of Hymes were thoroughly interviewed as part of the investigation, but authorities were unable to develop any suspects. Despite the extensive efforts made by law enforcement, Hymes’ murder remains unsolved, drawing attention to the ongoing challenges faced in violent crime investigations.

The Charleston County Sheriff’s Office has made it clear that they are still actively pursuing information that could help solve this case. They are inviting anyone who may have relevant details or knowledge about the events surrounding Hymes’ death to come forward. Detective Barry Goldstein is leading the investigation and can be reached directly at 843-554-2241. Additionally, individuals wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers at 843-554-1111.

This ongoing case reflects a growing concern over unsolved homicides in the Charleston area. As time progresses, the possibility of fresh evidence or new witnesses becoming available can provide critical assistance to detectives. Cold cases like Hymes’ emphasize the importance of community cooperation and the role that public input can play in resolving such tragedies.

In the years following Hymes’ murder, the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office has actively encouraged the community to engage in crime prevention and reporting suspicious activities. Initiatives to raise awareness about unsolved cases have been implemented, aiming to remind residents that their tips could bring closure to grieving families while holding offenders accountable.

Joseph H. Hymes was remembered by those who knew him as a vibrant young man, full of potential, whose life was tragically cut short. The impact of his murder still resonates in Charleston, a community that yearns for justice. As the 14th anniversary of his death approaches, the sheriff’s office continues to foster a resolve to find answers in this emotional case.

Anyone with information about the case is urged to come forward, as law enforcement emphasizes that any piece of information, no matter how small, could be crucial in moving the investigation forward.

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Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON

The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.