Whitmire Man Sentenced to 30 Years for Murder
In a tragic turn of events, the small town of Laurens has been rocked by a recent court ruling regarding a senseless crime. Blaize Pedro Plaza, a 21-year-old resident of nearby Whitmire, is set to spend the next three decades behind bars after pleading guilty to shooting 24-year-old Jamal Alston and leaving him for dead by the roadside in Newberry County.
Details of the Incident
On a night that began like any other, an argument between friends turned deadly. It was just a few days before Christmas in 2021 when Plaza, his girlfriend, and Alston were driving together in the early morning hours. Things took a turn when tensions flared, prompting Alston to pull over alongside Highway 66 to allow Plaza to step out for a restroom break. Little did anyone know, this pause would lead to an act of violence that would change many lives forever.
During this fateful stop, Plaza pulled out a 9 mm pistol and shot Alston five times. After committing this horrific act, Plaza fled the scene in Alston’s vehicle, leaving the victim gravely injured alongside the road.
Discovery and Investigation
Miraculously, a passing motorist noticed Alston and quickly contacted the authorities for help. But the story didn’t end there; a vehicle fire was reported in Union County, coincidentally belonging to Alston. This set off a firestorm of investigations as authorities started connecting the dots between the shooting and the vehicle fire.
Law Enforcement Steps In
Working swiftly, investigators identified Plaza as the primary suspect within 24 hours. Both Plaza and his girlfriend were tracked down for questioning. Surprisingly, Plaza confessed to the crime, and his girlfriend’s testimony corroborated his story, making the case against him undeniable.
The wheels of justice were set in motion. The case was brought to court, with Deputy Solicitor Taylor Daniel and Assistant Solicitor Bret Price leading the prosecution. Meanwhile, Plaza was represented by Tristan Shaffer from the 8th Circuit Public Defender’s Office.
A Lengthy Sentence and Hope for Closure
On Wednesday, in a hearing at the Laurens County Courthouse, Plaza pleaded guilty to murder. Circuit Judge Frank Addy Jr. responded by sentencing him to a full 30 years in prison. Under South Carolina law, it’s important to note that sentences for murder must be served day-for-day, meaning Plaza will not have the opportunity for parole or early release.
8th Circuit Solicitor David M. Stumbo expressed his deep condolences to Alston’s family, emphasizing how a seemingly normal night ended in anguish due to a “meaningless argument.” He praised the diligent investigative efforts from law enforcement, including the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office and the State Law Enforcement Division, which ensured a swift resolution to the case.
A Community in Mourning
The community is left grappling with the loss of a young life taken far too soon. As friends and family remember Jamal Alston, they are reminded of how quickly life can change due to violence and poor decisions. The hope now is that through the courts, some semblance of justice can bring closure to Alston’s loved ones, allowing them to heal from this tragic chapter in their lives.
As this story unfolds, it’s a stark reminder that in moments of heated arguments, we must remember to choose words instead of violence, for the cost can be unbearably high.
