COLUMBIA, S.C. — Anthony Reese, 55, Charged in Connection with Girlfriend’s Death in Richland County

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Anthony Reese, 55, Charged in Connection with Girlfriend’s Death in Richland County

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Authorities in Richland County have arrested and officially charged 55-year-old Anthony Reese in connection with the death of his girlfriend, Angela Fuller, whose body was discovered earlier this month under suspicious circumstances. The case has sent shockwaves through the Columbia community as details continue to emerge in what investigators are calling a domestic-related homicide.

According to the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, Fuller’s body was found on September 11 in a secluded area off a rural road in Richland County, after concerned family members reported her missing. Initial findings raised immediate red flags, and investigators soon launched a full-scale homicide investigation.

Discovery of Angela Fuller’s Body

Authorities say Angela Fuller, believed to be in her early 50s, was last seen alive in early September. When family members were unable to reach her for several days, they contacted law enforcement and filed a missing persons report.

On September 11, deputies located her body in a wooded area not far from Reese’s residence. The exact location of the discovery has not been disclosed to the public, pending further investigation.

The Richland County Coroner’s Office confirmed Fuller’s identity and later ruled her death as homicide by blunt force trauma, though additional injuries are also under investigation.

The Arrest of Anthony Reese

Following several days of investigation, including forensic evidence collection, witness interviews, and surveillance footage analysis, authorities developed Anthony Reese as the primary suspect. Reese was reportedly Angela Fuller’s longtime boyfriend, and the two shared a “complicated and tumultuous” relationship, according to investigators.

On Wednesday, Richland County deputies arrested Reese without incident. He has since been charged with murder and is being held at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center without bond.

“We believe this was a case of domestic violence that escalated into a fatal act,” said Sheriff Leon Lott during a Thursday press conference. “Angela Fuller didn’t deserve what happened to her. No one does. Our hearts go out to her family and loved ones.”

History of Domestic Disputes

According to court records, Reese has a prior criminal history involving domestic violence-related charges. While previous charges were either dismissed or adjudicated with minimal sentences, law enforcement officials now say that warning signs were present in the couple’s past.

“This wasn’t the first time deputies had been called to incidents involving these two,” said one investigator familiar with the case. “Unfortunately, this time, it ended in tragedy.”

Advocacy groups are renewing calls for more robust protections and early interventions in domestic abuse cases, pointing to Fuller’s death as another painful reminder of the dangers victims often face behind closed doors.

Community Reaction and Support

News of Fuller’s death has devastated her friends, neighbors, and coworkers. A small memorial with flowers and candles has been set up outside her Columbia apartment building, where community members have gathered in remembrance.

“Angela was kind. She didn’t deserve this,” said a neighbor. “She always had a smile and a helping hand for anyone who needed it.”

Local organizations, including Sistercare—a nonprofit that provides services to survivors of domestic violence—are offering grief counseling and support for the family and encouraging anyone experiencing abuse to seek help before situations escalate.

Ongoing Investigation

While Reese has been charged, the investigation remains active and ongoing. Detectives are continuing to gather evidence, conduct interviews, and build the case ahead of potential grand jury proceedings.

Authorities are also asking anyone who may have seen Angela Fuller or Anthony Reese between September 1 and September 11, or who may have information related to the case, to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC. Tips can remain anonymous.

Raising Awareness Around Domestic Violence

As the Fuller family prepares to lay their loved one to rest, community leaders are using the tragedy to raise awareness about domestic abuse—an issue that affects countless lives across South Carolina and the nation.

“Domestic violence doesn’t always leave visible scars,” said a spokesperson for South Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (SCCADVASA). “If you or someone you know is in danger, please seek help. It could save a life.”

In Loving Memory

Angela Fuller’s family has described her as a loving mother, sister, and friend — someone who brought light into every room she entered. Funeral arrangements are currently being finalized, and a public candlelight vigil is being organized by friends for this coming weekend in Columbia.

“Angela was more than a victim. She was a beautiful soul, and we will fight to make sure her story is not forgotten,” said her sister in a statement to local media.

If You Need Help

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence in South Carolina, resources are available:

• Sistercare Crisis Line: 803-765-9428

• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE)

• Text “START” to 88788

• Visit: www.thehotline.org

🕯️ Angela Fuller — May she rest in peace. 🕯️
Her voice was silenced, but her story must be heard.