Nicholas Wayne Hamlett Captured After Weeks on the Run
After nearly four weeks of evading capture following an alleged murder in Tennessee, Nicholas Wayne Hamlett is now in custody. The Columbia Police Department announced on November 10, 2024, that Hamlett was located at a local hospital in Columbia, South Carolina, nearly a week and a half after being spotted in the area.
Law enforcement officials say that Hamlett, wanted for the murder of 34-year-old Steven Douglas Lloyd in Tennessee, was recognized by a hospital employee. This led to a confirmation of his identity through a fingerprint scan conducted by the University of South Carolina police.
There had been multiple unconfirmed sightings of Hamlett since November 1, 2024, when he was seen near Chapin High School in the early hours. These sightings prompted extensive searches by law enforcement, but he managed to remain at large until his hospital identification.
Hamlett is currently in the custody of U.S. Marshals, who are in the process of coordinating his extradition to Tennessee, where he faces serious charges. The police indicated that they are making arrangements with Tennessee authorities regarding Hamlett’s return to Monroe County.
The circumstances surrounding the murder in Tennessee are troubling. On October 18, 2024, a man claiming to be Brandon Andrade called 911, reporting a dangerous encounter while hiking. Emergency responders later found a body, initially believed to be Andrade. However, it turned out to be Hamlett, who was using Andrade’s identification and had made the call.
Hamlett’s ability to elude capture has been a source of worry for residents in Richland and Lexington counties. Many have felt on edge, especially those living in suburban areas like Chapin and Irmo, as he remained at large.
As authorities work through the extradition process, the community is relieved that this suspect is finally in custody. Further updates on the situation are expected as the case progresses.
