HORRY COUNTY, SC — Woman Arrested in Murder of 11-Year-Old A’kyri Bell; Seven Other Children Removed from Home
A tragic and deeply disturbing case has shaken the Horry County community to its core, as local authorities announced the arrest of 31-year-old Camisha McGaskey in connection with the murder of 11-year-old A’kyri Bell. The arrest comes after an investigation revealed the child had suffered multiple blunt force injuries, leading to her untimely and horrific death.
The case has sparked outrage, heartbreak, and urgent calls for child protection reform across South Carolina.
A Call That Changed Everything
According to the Horry County Police Department (HCPD), officers responded to a 911 call reporting an unresponsive child at a residence earlier this week. Upon arrival, first responders found 11-year-old A’kyri Bell unconscious and badly injured. Despite the life-saving efforts of emergency personnel, A’kyri was pronounced dead shortly after being transported to a local hospital.
Initial findings prompted an immediate investigation by HCPD’s Crimes Against Persons and Special Victims Units, who quickly identified signs of prolonged abuse. A coroner’s report later confirmed that A’kyri had suffered multiple blunt force trauma injuries, consistent with repeated physical violence.
The investigation led to the arrest of Camisha McGaskey, a woman identified as A’kyri’s guardian. She has since been charged with murder and remains in custody at the J. Reuben Long Detention Center. Additional charges are expected as investigators continue to uncover the full extent of the abuse and the conditions within the household.
A Systemic Failure?
Authorities revealed that A’kyri Bell had been placed under the care of a guardian—Camisha McGaskey—due to her biological parents being unable to provide care. While details of how or when the child was placed in McGaskey’s custody remain under investigation, HCPD confirmed that seven other children were also found in the home.
All seven children have since been removed from the household by the South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS) and are now in protective custody. Their health and welfare are currently being evaluated by child welfare professionals.
“This is one of the most devastating cases we’ve seen in recent memory,” said a law enforcement spokesperson. “No child should suffer the way A’kyri did. She deserved love, protection, and safety—not fear and violence.”
Community Outcry
News of A’kyri Bell’s death has rippled through Horry County and beyond, leaving community members stunned and demanding answers. Many are questioning how a child could be subjected to such abuse without intervention.
“We failed this little girl,” said local advocate Tasha Boyd, who works with at-risk youth. “The system that was supposed to protect her—whether that’s family services, educators, neighbors—didn’t act fast enough or at all. This cannot happen again.”
Vigils and memorials are already being planned in A’kyri’s honor. A growing number of community leaders are calling for stronger safeguards, more frequent welfare checks, and greater accountability for guardians.
Ongoing Investigation
As the investigation continues, police are working closely with DSS and prosecutors to determine if others may have been complicit or aware of the abuse. Additional forensic evidence is being collected, and interviews are ongoing with the children removed from the home.
Authorities have not released the ages of the other children found in the residence, but confirmed they are all minors. HCPD urges anyone with information related to this case—or suspicions of child abuse in any home—to come forward immediately.
Tips can be submitted anonymously to Horry County Crime Stoppers at 888-CRIME-SC (888-274-6372) or through the department’s online reporting system.
Remembering A’kyri Bell
As legal proceedings unfold, the memory of A’kyri Bell stands as a painful reminder of the children whose voices go unheard. Described by extended family as bright, curious, and full of life, A’kyri was a young girl with dreams and potential—stolen far too soon by the very person entrusted with her care.
“She was a sweet girl,” said a family acquaintance. “She didn’t deserve any of this. I hope she knows how many people care now, even if they didn’t know then.”
Plans for a memorial service are underway, with community members contributing to a fundraiser to cover funeral expenses and to raise awareness for child abuse prevention.
Rest in power, A’kyri Bell. Your life mattered. Your story will not be forgotten.