Crime
Calvin Sowells found shot in Timmonsville dies
FLORENCE COUNTY, S.C. — A man who was shot in Timmonsville on Tuesday has died from his injuries, according to Timmonsville Police Chief James Allen.
Authorities said the victim, identified as Calvin Sowells, arrived at the Hot Spot convenience store on Highway 76 suffering from a gunshot wound.
Investigators have not yet determined the exact location where the shooting occurred.
Chief Allen confirmed the death and stated that the case is being treated as an active homicide investigation.
“We are currently working a shooting that occurred within the town limits of Timmonsville. The victim, Mr. Calvin Sowells, is deceased. We have active leads and are pursuing them at this time,” Allen said.
The Florence County Sheriff’s Office is assisting Timmonsville police with the investigation.
Officials emphasized that additional information will be released as the case develops.
Crime
Watch: Jeffrey Epstein survivors release video calling on Congress to release the Epstein files
Survivors of Jeffrey Epstein’s abuse have released a powerful public message calling on Congress to declassify and release all documents connected to Epstein, his crimes, and those who may have enabled or participated in his trafficking network.
In the video statement, survivors emphasize that across five presidential administrations, they have waited without answers, transparency, or meaningful accountability.
More than three decades after Epstein’s crimes first came to light, they say critical information remains sealed, redacted, or otherwise inaccessible to the public — including to those who suffered directly as a result of his actions.
“For thirty years, we have waited in silence and uncertainty,” the message states. “We deserve the truth. The world deserves the truth. The time has come to bring the secrets out of the shadows.”
The group is urging lawmakers to support the Epstein Files Transparency Act, a proposed measure that would require the federal government to release investigative records, court materials, and relevant agency files associated with Epstein, his associates, and public institutions connected to the case.
Advocates argue that releasing the full record will not only expose systemic failures but also help prevent future exploitation by revealing networks, complicity, and loopholes that enabled Epstein to operate with impunity for decades.
In their call to action, survivors are asking the public to contact their elected officials and demand full transparency.
The video concludes with a unified plea:
“We are demanding the release of all Epstein files. The time is now. Call your member of Congress and tell them to vote YES on the Epstein Files Transparency Act.”
The movement continues to gain momentum nationally, with growing public support and increasing pressure on lawmakers to act.
Further updates will be provided as legislative developments unfold.