Reverend Eichelberger was involved in a beating in his home that resulted in his death.
44-year-old Frankie Lee McGee charged with murder and burglary
COLUMBIA -- A suspect has been charged in the murder of a Richland County reverend.
Friday, the Columbia City Police and Richland County Sheriff's Department held a joint press conference to give the results of their investigation.
They announced that 44-year-old Frankie Lee McGee has been arrested on murder and burglary charges against Reverend Tyron Eichelberger. DNA evidence linked McGee to the crime.
In May of 2009, 87-year-old Eichelberger was involved in a beating in his home and suffered injuries that later resulted in his death.
Eichelberger's wallet and other valuable items were left behind.
Columbia Police Chief Tandy Carter refused to reveal evidence or give a motive for the crime, but did call McGee a habitual thief.
The reverend's family was in attendance at the press conference.
"It means a lot," says Mary Johnson, Eichelberger's daughter. "I mean, a lot of pressure has been taken off the family as a result."
McGee is currently held at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center.
He was moved from the Lee Correctional Institution in Bishopville where he was serving time on unrelated charges.
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