Sumter, SC – October 26, 2025 – A year has passed since tragedy struck on Britton Road in Sumter, claiming the lives of 15-year-old Marvin Butler and 12-year-old Basir Wells. This weekend, family members, friends, and community advocates gathered to honor the boys’ memory and demand accountability—not only from local authorities but from every driver who travels their roads.
What Happened
On a quiet evening last October, Marvin Butler and Basir Wells were walking along Britton Road when they were struck and killed by a car. The incident sent shockwaves through the Sumter community and left two families forever changed.
Since then, their loved ones have struggled with grief and frustration, saying that justice remains elusive.
“They killed our boys,” one family member said through tears. “Our babies have been gone—it’s been a year. I cry every day and every night. We want justice, and we want Sumter County to do their job.”
Despite community outcry, the families say they have received little communication from local authorities, and the driver involved has not faced charges, leaving deep wounds and unanswered questions.
Remembering Marvin and Basir
This Saturday, loved ones gathered on Britton Road for a memorial walk in honor of Marvin and Basir—two boys remembered for their bright smiles, friendship, and love for life.
Dozens of community members joined the families, carrying balloons, candles, and posters bearing the boys’ photos. The walk served not only as an act of remembrance but also as a plea for accountability and pedestrian safety reforms in Sumter County.
“It feels good, but it doesn’t feel like justice,” said Lakyesha Nelson, Marvin’s mother. “They love these kids—these are all our kids. We don’t separate any of them. We love these kids, and we want answers.”
For the families, the gathering was bittersweet: a moment of unity and love shadowed by the pain of loss and the weight of injustice.
A Call for Justice and Change
Laushawn Ceasar, cousin of Basir Wells, shared how the families have been living with heartbreak and uncertainty for an entire year.
“They just want closure and understanding,” Ceasar said. “When you lose your child, that’s not the circle of life—you’re not supposed to bury them. They’re just asking for support and for this story to have an ending.”
Event organizer Davon Woods emphasized that the walk was also about raising awareness of pedestrian safety and ensuring the tragedy is not forgotten.
“It means a lot because things like this often get swept under the rug,” Woods said. “The family will always remember—but what about the community? What about the city? We’re doing this to spread light and hope because the family really needs it.”
Participants echoed calls for improved lighting, sidewalks, and signage on rural roads like Britton Road, where many residents walk due to limited public transportation.
The Community’s Commitment
The Sumter community continues to rally around the families, providing emotional support and a collective voice demanding transparency and justice. Local churches, youth groups, and activists joined the march, vowing to keep Marvin and Basir’s names alive until answers are given.
The families also expressed gratitude for the community’s continued support but say that local officials must now take concrete action—both to bring closure to their case and to prevent future tragedies.
Moving Forward
As the one-year mark passes, Marvin Butler and Basir Wells are remembered not only for how they died but for how they lived—two young boys full of promise, laughter, and dreams cut short.
Their families remain united in their demand for justice and their commitment to turning pain into purpose.
“We need Sumter County to show up for us,” said Nelson. “Just like our community did.”
If you have any information about the crash that killed Marvin Butler and Basir Wells, contact the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office or local authorities.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
The post One Year Later: Sumter Community Honors Marvin Butler and Basir Wells, Calls for Justice and Safer Streets first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
