Police arrest suspect in brutal murder of a South Carolina pastor

Tryon Eichelberger was an 87-year old father and pastor in Columbia, South Carolina when an unknown man broke into his home and beat him to death. Now, police believe they have the man who is responsible for the crime.

Frankie Lee McGee, a 44-year old with a vast burglary record, is being charged with the murder and first-degree burglary. Authorities connected McGee to the crime after recently increasing their efforts. DNA evidence has connected McGee to the crime. He was actually already in jail when when police made the connection. McGee had been arrested in September for another burglary and was still sitting in jail because his probation had been refused. He has at least 12 burglary charges according to the State Law Enforcement Division.

McGee could face the death penalty for the crime if convicted. However, the Solicitor’s office has not determined whether or not they will seek that maximum penalty.

Family members of Eichelberger were reportedly emotional over the capture of the suspect, but also relieved. They had never given hope that the responsible party would be held accountable, they told reporters.

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