Jury Convicts Man of Murder and Weapon Possession

HARDEEVILLE, South Carolina — Charles Saunders, 50, a New York native, was sentenced to life in prison on Thursday after a jury convicted him of killing two people and illegal weapon possession in a shooting that occurred on June 18, 2024, at the Walsh Drive Apartments in Hardeeville — about a 30-minute drive from Savannah, Georgia.

The two victims in the incident were identified as Alesia Dykes, 40, and Bernard Alexander Lyles, 39.

Long-Standing Dispute Escalates to Deadly Violence

According to the prosecution, Saunders and Dykes knew each other from New York. While visiting relatives in South Carolina, Saunders had been staying at Dykes' home for several weeks.

However, a dispute between Saunders and Lyles — Dykes' partner — had persisted for several days and escalated into a fierce argument outside the apartment complex on the day of the incident.

Shooting Witnessed by Three Young Children

Prosecutors stated that when the altercation broke out, the two victims attempted to run inside the house to avoid conflict. However, Saunders blocked the doorway, drew a 9mm handgun from his waistband, and shot both victims while three young children witnessed the entire event.

Alesia Dykes died at the scene. Bernard Alexander Lyles was rushed to the hospital but did not survive.

One of the three children ran to a nearby relative's home for help, while the suspect fled the scene.

Arrested at a Nearby Waffle House Restaurant

Law enforcement arrested Saunders just hours after the shooting at a Waffle House restaurant near the scene.

Investigation records show Saunders had a criminal history in New York, including charges for illegal gun possession and assault.

Judge Hands Down Life Sentence

District Judge Carmen T. Mullen sentenced Saunders to life in prison. Prosecutor Trasi Campbell remarked that the defendant "responded to trust and hospitality with severe violence."

The sentence concludes a case that shook the Hardeeville community, especially as the violent act unfolded in front of children. Authorities emphasized that the ruling aims to ensure community safety and bring justice to the victims' families.