Manhunt in Newberry County for 20-Year-Old Suspect

News Summary

In Newberry County, South Carolina, a manhunt is underway for 20-year-old Landon Major Howell, deemed dangerous by authorities following his escape from law enforcement. Howell, who fled into the woods after being spotted breaking into a store, is suspected in several crimes. The Newberry community remains vigilant as law enforcement seeks information leading to his capture.

Manhunt in Newberry County for 20-Year-Old Suspect

In the picturesque town of Newberry, South Carolina, a serious situation is unfolding as law enforcement officials are currently on the hunt for a local resident, 20-year-old Landon Major Howell. The Newberry County Sheriff’s Office has deemed Howell as “dangerous,” and has issued arrest warrants following his escape from law enforcement during a recent search.

What Happened?

The drama kicked off shortly after midnight on Sunday, March 24, 2025, when officers responded to a 911 call that reported Howell inside a closed store on Kendall Road. As deputies arrived and began their investigation, Howell took off into the thick woods near the intersection of Bush River Road. It was a scene right out of a suspenseful film!

Authorities quickly realized that they had a real situation on their hands. Surveillance footage captured Howell fleeing while armed with a hatchet and various tools, raising alarms about his potential danger to the public. Immediate efforts were launched to track him down.

Intensive Search Efforts

Law enforcement sprang into action, involving deputies from the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office, officers from the Newberry Police Department, and agents from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED). The search was a well-coordinated operation, utilizing a police K-9 unit and aerial support over the wooded terrain.

Officers on the ground spotted a figure walking along the railroad tracks, but as they closed in, the individual dashed into the nearby woods, and the chase continued. At one point, it was discovered that Howell had taken refuge in an abandoned structure, cleverly discarding some of his clothing to throw off the pursuing officers.

Sadly, the trail eventually went cold as it seemed Howell managed to evade capture, with authorities suspecting he might have been picked up by an accomplice as the search reached a nearby highway.

Who is Landon Howell?

For those unfamiliar with the story, Howell is described as a white male, standing at 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighing around 220 pounds. He has brown hair and brown eyes. More importantly, he is not new to trouble, being suspected of involvement in a series of crimes along the Kendall Road corridor.

Prior to this incident, Howell was already under scrutiny. Just recently, in March 2025, he was charged with second-degree burglary (violent) and had posted a bond amounting to $25,000 on March 13—only to find himself in hot water once again shortly after.

His rap sheet reveals a troubling pattern, including multiple arrests in 2024 for offenses like shoplifting (under $2,000), additional second-degree burglary charges, and even a drug possession offense. The string of crimes paints a picture not of a first-time offender, but of someone who seems to thrive on mischief.

Authorities Calling for Help

In light of the ongoing manhunt, local authorities have urged anyone who might have information on Howell’s whereabouts to step forward. They can contact the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office directly at 803-321-2222 or submit an anonymous tip online. Every piece of information could be vital in bringing this situation to a peaceful resolution.

Stay Tuned!

This story is still developing, and updates will be shared as more details emerge. The Newberry community remains on alert, hopeful for a safe outcome as law enforcement continues to search for Howell.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• WACH – Manhunt Underway for Armed Suspect
• Google Search: Newberry County manhunt
• WIS TV – Suspect Arrested After Overnight Manhunt
• Encyclopedia Britannica: manhunt
• News 9 – Manhunt Underway for Jail Escapee
• Google News: manhunt