Tryon Eichelberger
Suspect Composite
Richland County, SC (WLTX) -- Richland County deputies are asking for your help to find those know who was responsible for the death of the Rev. Tryon Eichelberger, an 87-year-old who was beaten to death last year.
CrimeStoppers, an initiative from law enforcement agencies that rewards callers with cash for anonymous tips, and Lamar Advertising have partnered together to ask "Who Killed the Rev. Tryon Eichelberger, Sr.?" Previous Coverage: Family of Pastor Speaks After Home Invasion | Family Reacts to Pastor Beaten to Death
If you know the answer the question that has eluded law enforcement agencies since May, you may be eligible to receive $4,000 from Eichelberger's family and friends and $1,000 from CrimeStoppers.
The messages can be seen at nine locations in the county, including:
- The intersections of Assembly Street and Ballpark Road (near where the Columbia Blowfish play)
- 4508 St. Andrews Road
- 3118 Augusta Road
- 2008 Taylor Street
- Interstate-77 south and Garners Ferry Road
- 600 Bossom Street
- Highway 6 and Andrew Corley Street
- Broad River and Kennerly Road
Eichelberger was found injured in his home on Isaac Street in Columbia in May 2009. Authorities say Eichelberger died on July 31, 2009 from injuries suffered in the attack. Authorities released a sketch of the suspect, but no other information regarding those responsible. Related Coverage: Suspect Sketch Released in Reverend's Home Invasion
On Wednesday, investigators released a picture of what they think is the weapon the attacker used to beat Eichelberger. Investigators say it's a Kinedyne model 10033 Flatbed Combination Winch Bar, a tool used by people who work on flatbed trucks or rail cars to loosen or tighten chains. Deputies say the unique weapon measures about 39.5 inches in length and weighs about 6.5 pounds. Investigators say the attacker may have been seen carrying the chrome planted weapon before the attack, and it could have been stolen from a nearby rail car.
Family members and friends who spoke with News19 say Eichelberger spent his life serving his community and say he was very active in his neighborhood. Previous Coverage: Neighbors Worried, Saddened by Pastor's Death
News19 spent Thanksgiving with the Eichelberger family, who raised the $4,000 reward to offer to anyone who may be able to provide information that leads to an arrest. Read the Story: Slain Reverend's Family Raising Money for Cash Reward
If you provide information that leads to an arrest, you may be eligible to receive the cash rewards. You can contact CrimeStoppers by calling 1-888-CRIME-SC or text a tip to "CRIMES" beginning with the term "TIPSC."