Man Accused of Murdering Former Coworker in Parking Lot Has History of Violence, Records Show
The Incident
The quiet morning in Piedmont, South Carolina, was shattered by gunshots as a woman was savagely murdered in her car. The incident occurred on Exchange Logistics Park Drive around 6:45 a.m., where the perpetrator walked into the business parking lot and shot Katy Brooke Jones, the 36-year-old victim, multiple times in her vehicle. Identified as Derek Snyder, the 33-year-old gunman fled the scene on foot soon after committing the crime.
The Victim’s Death
Jones was rushed to a Prisma Health hospital following the grim incident; however, she succumbed to her injuries. The Anderson County Coroner’s Office has classified her death as a homicide. Traumatic morning scenes left a black sedan, marked with bullet holes, as evidence at the crime scene which was later towed away around 9:45 a.m.
Suspect Apprehension
Snyder was later arrested several hours after the murderous act in Buford, Georgia. The law enforcement authorities charged him with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. It was revealed that Snyder, like his victim, had been employed at NRTC until being let go just a few weeks prior to the crime. Although the motive for the shooting remains shrouded in darkness, the police confirmed that Snyder had worked in the same organization as Jones.
Criminal History
This was not Snyder’s first encounter with the law. Public records bring a chilling history of violence to light, involving multiple arrests for gruesome crimes, including assault and battery, domestic violence, and malicious injury to an animal. His criminal activities also enter the realm of threats against officials and their families.
As the investigation continues, the community is left reeling from the horrors of violent crime metastasizing within the boundaries of everyday life. The residents’ demands for justice for Jones and a more secure environment are palpable.
Implications for Security
This harrowing incident amplifies the need for employers to conduct regular and thorough background checks on their employees. It showcases a glaring loophole within organizations that can potentially put the lives of their staff at risk. This tragic event is a stark reminder of the urgency of safety measures that reinforce employee security.
As the story continues to unfold, more updates on this developing investigation will be made available. The tragic loss of Katy Brooke Jones serves as a chilling testament to the enduring presence of violence within society, underscored by the brutal reality of life cut short in a regular commute to work.
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
